Arsenal secured an impressive 3-0 win over Lille in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
The Gunners struggled to convert their chances in the opening half and had an equally frustrating period after the break before Jurrien Timber broke the deadlock in the 64th minute.
Noni Madueke assisted Timber, who produced a lovely chipped finish beyond the onrushing goalkeeper. This opened the floodgates, with Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka scoring soon after.
Timber was handed the man of the match after his sublime goal to open the scoring. He took to Instagram after the game to express his delight, and some teammates praised him.
The Dutchman made his first Champions League appearance of the season after his nagging groin issue, and midfielder Declan Rice was particularly pleased for him. He commented: ‘he’s back’.
Here is a screenshot
Aside from his goal, the 25-year-old completed 90 percent of his passes on the night and won 100 percent of his ground duels contested (5/5).
Timber, signed for an overall £38.5m from Ajax in 2023, made three recoveries and completed two dribbles. He created a big chance for Mikel Merino, who could not score with a free header.
Despite the fine showing, the Netherlands ace could return to the bench on Sunday when the Gunners take on Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on the road.
Timber’s workload needs managing after his lengthy summer injury layoff, and Ben White looks poised to return to the XI against the Tricky Trees at City Ground.
Recent history suggests it could be a difficult outing for the Gunners. Arsenal have played out goalless draws in the last two trips and have just one win in six visits to the stadium.
Arsenal could be six points behind league leaders Manchester City before the trip, given the Cityzens have an easier home game against Ipswich Town, which they are likely to win.
Stats from Sofascore.com