Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar will not be in the matchday squad for the game against Stade de Reims tomorrow afternoon due to disciplinary reasons, according to reports in France.

The 22-year-old had some fitness issues during the international break and was an unused substitute for the 1-0 win over Angers last Sunday. However, rather than participating in the warm down following the victory, he opted to return to the dressing room instead.

Aouar’s explanation was that he was concerned that he’d get injured running on the poor pitch at Angers but that excuse didn’t fly with the club’s hierarchy. Sporting director Juninho and general manager Vincent Ponsot have decided that the Frenchman must be punished by being omitted from the squad for the clash versus Reims.

Arsenal will undoubtedly be watching the situation closely. The Gunners were unable to match the midfielder’s €50m (£45m) asking price in the summer but, if he continues to have disciplinary problems, it will be hoped that he is available for a lower amount when the transfer window opens in January.