Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber
Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber
Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber had an excellent start to the season, contributing to his side’s enviable defensive record.
Capable of playing across the backline, the Dutchman was especially effective at right-back, forming part of a resolute back four alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
But Timber, whose first season at Arsenal was derailed by injury, has been out of action since he was forced off in the first half of a 2-0 win over Everton last month.
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Timber is believed to be closing in on a recovery, and there were some suggestions that he might have been fit for the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Sporting.
He did not feature in that game, but Arsenal will be boosted if he is available for Sunday’s huge Premier League title clash with Manchester City.
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It is not entirely clear what injury Timber sustained against Everton, with reports of a groin problem and an ankle knock.
Regardless, manager Mikel Arteta suggested the defender, along with Bukayo Saka, could soon return to action.
Asked if either of the two players would be involved against Sporting in midweek, Arteta said: "Maybe one of them, let's see.”
As it turned out, neither of them were in the squad, but the news is still positive for Arsenal.
Timber was asked about his injury status and whether he could play against City after last weekend’s defeat to Bournemouth, and said: "It's recovering, we'll see. I can't say but I am recovering."
Jurrien Timber of Arsenal is treated for an injury during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton
Jurrien Timber of Arsenal is treated for an injury during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton
Having the versatile full-back available will certainly help Arteta, who has relied on Ben White to play regularly in recent weeks.
The return of one of the division’s strongest defensive right-backs could be timely as the Gunners attempt to deal with the threat of Jeremy Doku.
The Belgian winger scored in City’s 3-0 win over Chelsea last time out, and Arteta will undoubtedly be keen to keep him quiet.