Arsenal appear to have been handed a positive injury update on Jurrien Timber ahead of a crucial run of fixtures following the international break. The Dutch defender caused concern after going down late in the 2-2 draw against Brighton, sparking fears of a serious setback after his injury-riddled first season at the club. Timber had missed most of last season due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered on his competitive debut after joining from Ajax in a £34 million move.
Timber had made a strong return this season, featuring in Arsenal’s first three matches, starting against Aston Villa and Brighton and coming off the bench against Wolves. However, when he appeared to be in discomfort during the Brighton game, Mikel Arteta swiftly substituted him for Oleksandr Zinchenko to avoid any risks.
Fortunately, Arteta later confirmed that Timber was only suffering from cramp, alleviating fears of a more serious injury. “No, he was I think cramping,” Arteta told reporters. “He got a kick in the first half and was cramping so we had to take him off.” Timber’s exit was greeted with warm applause from the Emirates crowd, and he did not seem to be moving too badly as he left the field.
This news will be a relief for Arsenal supporters, especially with other key players sidelined. New signing Mikel Merino is out for several weeks with a shoulder injury sustained during his first training session, while striker Gabriel Jesus is recovering from a groin problem. Defenders Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney are also out with knee and hamstring injuries, respectively.
Arsenal face a challenging schedule after the international break, starting with a north London derby against Tottenham on September 15, followed by a clash with title rivals Manchester City a week later. Uefa has also confirmed that Arsenal will kick off their Champions League campaign against Atalanta in Italy, just three days before their trip to the Etihad Stadium.
Adding to Arsenal’s challenges, midfielder Declan Rice will miss the Tottenham match due to suspension after receiving two yellow cards in the draw against Brighton. Arteta will have to rely on other midfield options, despite being short on depth. “This is what happens. We have other players that can fulfil and we can give an opportunity to someone else,” Arteta commented on Rice’s absence.
On the positive side, Raheem Sterling, who joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea, is expected to make his debut against Spurs, having signed too late to feature against Brighton. Loanee goalkeeper Neto, signed from Bournemouth on deadline day, will also be available for selection.
As Arsenal head into a pivotal stretch of the season, Arteta will hope to have as many players fit and ready as possible, with Timber’s minor scare not adding to their already mounting injury list.