Rio Ferdinand believes Arsenal defender Ezri Konsa has given Mikel Arteta "some big decisions to make and big headaches" ahead of William Saliba's return.

Konsa joined Arsenal this summer from Aston Villa for a reported £55m and was thrown into the starting line-up after injuries to Saliba and Cristhian Mosquera.

Saliba is yet to feature for the Gunners this season after suffering a back injury in France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain in July, but has recently returned to training.

The Frenchman was spotted in training ahead of Arsenal's Champions League encounter with Slavia Prague on Wednesday.

However, Konsa has impressed in Saliba's absence, highlighted by his display during Arsenal's win over Liverpool on Sunday, when the England international led his side in duels won (8/9), tackles won (4/5) and clearances (eight).

Among Arsenal defenders this season, Konsa has won the joint-most tackles (nine) and most possessions (40), as well as winning the second-most duels (54), aerial duels (19) and recording the second-most interceptions (10), trailing Gabriel Magalhaes in all three categories.

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Ferdinand praised the impact of Konsa and felt Manchester United should have gone in for the defender in the summer.

"I think William Saliba is one of those guys that you have to find room for in the team," Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel. "He's that good, he's top.

"I wouldn't be surprised if Konsa goes back to right-back once Saliba comes back. I wouldn't be surprised because Konsa is top. He's a top, top player and another one I thought Manchester United should have got because he's a top player.

"He's giving Mikel Arteta some big decisions to make and big headaches because he's slipped in seamlessly and put in some big performances. What a signing he's been for Arsenal."