Saliba & Gabriel out of international duty with injuries

Arsenal duo William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have pulled out of international duty due to minor injuries.

Saliba has been nursing an ankle concern for some period of time and he has therefore decided against reporting with France.

In his absence, Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix has received his maiden call-up to the national side under manager Didier Deschamps.

Meanwhile, Gabriel has decided not to take any risks with a knee issue.

The Brazilian previously got himself injured during an international break and his absence was felt in the heart of the defence.

Saliba and Gabriel are nailed-on starters in the central defensive department and the right decision has been made by the pair.

Alongside the pair, Leandro Trossard, Jurrien Timber and Eberechi Eze have also withdrawn from international duty, citing minor injuries.

The latter is nursing a calf problem and will undergo further tests to find out the extent of the damage in the next few days.