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Tzolis Back in Full Training as Arsenal Face Limited Wing Options Ahead of Liverpool

By @AAllenSport

Christos Tzolis has returned to full training after nearly four weeks out with a hamstring injury sustained on international duty with Greece. The winger pulled up early in Greece’s 2-2 draw with the Netherlands at the start of the month and went to London for treatment. His recovery comes at a time when Arsenal’s options on the flanks are thin. Bukayo Saka is sidelined with a quad problem, Max Dowman is banned for three league games, and Noni Madueke is nursing a knock from a match against Everton last weekend. A start at Anfield on Sunday may be too soon for Tzolis, but an appearance off the bench could be possible. Madueke is also expected to travel, provided he passes tomorrow’s training session. "We don’t know yet," said Arteta when asked about the England international’s availability. "We have a training session tomorrow. Let’s see if he can complete that full session tomorrow and after that we’ll know whether he’s available or not." Declan Rice and Riccardo Calafiori both trained today after missing Tuesday’s trip to Fleetwood Town and will be available for selection. William Saliba is expected to resume full training in the coming days, with his first appearance of the season pencilled in for after the Interlull. When pressed on a timeline for Saka’s return, Arteta said he would probably be out until after the upcoming internationals but that they would have to see next week. The 25‑year‑old was last reported to be waiting for another scan to determine the seriousness of his muscle injury. According to today’s update, that remains the case. "He needed another scan to see how the amount of fluid that was there was resolving, whether the tendon is touched and how badly it is touched. Afterwards, we’ll know more about it," Arteta added. "We want to have him back as quickly as possible. The player is desperate. He’s feeling much better than he was a few days ago, and we need to wait and see how he evolves."