Mikel Arteta has offered further hope that Jurrien Timber could return from injury in time for Arsenal's Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. The Netherlands international has not played since the 2-0 win over Everton in March, missing the last 13 games due to a groin problem.
Timber's Progress and Setbacks
The former Ajax star was spotted alongside his teammates as the Gunners celebrated their Premier League title triumph on Tuesday night. However, he was once again absent from training on Wednesday ahead of the final league game against Crystal Palace on Sunday. Arsenal have also been without Mikel Merino since January, with the Spain international returning to individual training. While Timber is a little further behind, Arteta hopes his right-back will rejoin the group soon.
“Mikel is going to start training with the group tomorrow,” Arteta told a press conference. “Jurrien, let's hope he can do the same in the next few days. But he's still a little further behind Mikel at that moment.”
Defensive Concerns
The Timber situation has been exacerbated by the loss of Ben White, whose season is over after suffering a significant medial knee ligament injury against West Ham United. Cristhian Mosquera is an option at right-back, but against PSG star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Arteta will be desperate to have his first-choice available.
Stephen Smith, CEO of Kitman Labs, which specialises in injury welfare, believes extensive work has been done behind the scenes at London Colney to get Timber ready. “If the player is not on the field and training after two months out, think of the match sharpness they have lost,” Smith told Metro. “Not to say it is impossible; I am sure they are doing a lot of work with him. Arsenal are short of numbers with Ben White out, so it could change their posture towards utilising Timber in these final weeks. But it certainly makes it more difficult. The importance of the games coming up matters.”
Looking Ahead
Arteta will hope Timber can regain fitness in time for the Champions League final, a crucial match for the club's season. The Gunners are also preparing for the Premier League finale against Crystal Palace before turning their attention to European glory.
