Arsenal were without star defender William Saliba for Wednesday's fixture at Brighton due to injury. The Frenchman was omitted from the squad for the journey to the Amex Stadium. A statement from Arsenal confirmed that his absence was due to an injury sustained in the victory against Chelsea. They said: "Saliba misses out after picking up an issue against Chelsea, so [Cristhian] Mosquera starts alongside Gabriel in one of two changes from our win at the weekend."

The Gunners added: "Gabriel Martinelli also comes in to start, with Leandro Trossard among the substitutes." Mosquera has been selected in the starting XI in Saliba's place and partners Gabriel Magalhaes. Saliba, 24, has been an integral figure for Arsenal this campaign, having featured 34 times across all competitions, netting once. That goal arrived in his latest appearance when Arsenal defeated London rivals Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Elsewhere for Arsenal, midfielder Declan Rice is included in the starting XI despite concerns over his fitness. He also sustained a slight problem against Chelsea but is considered sufficiently fit to feature against the Seagulls.

He lines up alongside Martin Zubimendi. Eberechi Eze, Bukayo Saka, Martinelli and Viktor Gyokeres make up the attacking quartet.

One significant absentee is Martin Odegaard, who is also excluded from the squad. Kai Havertz is judged fit enough to return, however, and has been named among the substitutes.

Discussing the German in his pre-match press conference, Mikel Arteta said: "So he's done a part of the session, we will have to wait and see whether he's available and in which condition. The rest I don't think there will be anybody else."

On the task of taking on Brighton, the Spanish manager stated: "Very, very good side. The way they're coached as well. They have a sequence of years as well with a very similar style and players that fit really, really well, what they want to do, they really believe in what they do. So, always a very tough opponent."

Arsenal could take a substantial step towards the title with a win against Brighton. They are five points ahead of their closest competitors, Manchester City, before kick-off. Pep Guardiola's team face struggling Nottingham Forest on Wednesday evening.