Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal are working to have Jurrien Timber available before the end of the season as the defender continues his recovery from a groin problem. Timber has been a key figure for the Gunners this campaign, featuring in 43 matches across all competitions, but has been sidelined for the past two months. His last appearance came in the 2-0 victory over Everton at the Emirates Stadium on March 14, during which he was substituted in the first half.
Timber's Return Timeline
Arsenal have two remaining Premier League fixtures: a home clash against Burnley on Monday night, followed by a trip to Crystal Palace on May 24. The primary target for Timber's return appears to be the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on May 30. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday morning, Arteta stated: 'He has progressed a little bit in the last few days. We will try to get him back and available as quick as possible. He's doing everything he possibly can to help the team in any capacity.' When asked about the likelihood of Timber featuring before the season ends, Arteta added: 'There is a chance, but how big that chance is I cannot tell you.'
Right-Back Crisis Deepens
Arteta is grappling with a significant issue at right-back following Ben White's season-ending injury. White sustained a serious knee problem during Sunday's match against West Ham and has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign. 'We need to look at alternatives, the two players that we have are not available at the moment so we need to look and do something else,' said Arteta. 'The good thing is we have experienced that all over the pitch this season because when we had issues they have normally been in the same positions as well and we have still managed to find the same level of performance and consistency.' He elaborated: 'There are different options, in relation to the opponent and the things we want to do. We have to be open to not just one, but to two or three options.'
Calafiori Fitness Uncertain
The Arsenal boss also expressed uncertainty over Riccardo Calafiori's availability for Monday's match against Burnley. 'We don't yet know if he will be available, we still have several days ahead, and we hope the injury is not serious,' Arteta commented. The club has officially confirmed White's absence, releasing a statement on their website: 'Further to Sunday's match at West Ham United, subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed that Ben White has sustained a significant medial knee ligament injury, which will rule him out for the remainder of this season. Our medical team are now managing Ben's recovery and rehabilitation programme, with everyone fully focused on supporting the aim of Ben being ready for the start of our pre-season preparations.' Arteta reiterated: 'It looks like a long-term injury. At the moment the focus is when can we have him back, that is not going to happen in many many weeks.'
