Arsenal summer signing Jurrien Timber is edging closer to a return from a long injury layoff, and we may see him on the pitch this season.
Timber was outstanding in pre-season after his summer arrival from Ajax, but suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury on his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest.
This may have ruled him out for the entire campaign, but he is now back in training, and could yet return to the squad in the coming weeks, and even play a part in the Premier League run-in and Champions League knockouts.
Jurrien’s brother, Quinten Timber, is a midfielder for Feyenoord, and he has now praised the Arsenal star for the determination he has shown in his recovery.
Quinten Timber praises Jurrien Timber ahead of Arsenal return
Speaking to Dutch outlet NU.NL, Quinten Timber claimed he is positive that his brother will make a successful return to action for Arsenal.
“We follow our own path and are especially proud of each other,” he stated.
“I saw him play at the European Championships and the World Cup, it was nice how fast he reached that level.
“I can only express my appreciation when I see how hard Jurriën is working on his comeback. He picked it up so positively. I’m sure he’ll show his skills at Arsenal again.”
When can Jurrien Timber return for Arsenal?
Although he is back in training, an imminent return to the pitch seems unlikely. Other stars returning from injury in Takehiro Tomiyasu and Thomas Partey featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly against QPR yesterday, with Timber not yet ready to feature.
If he is unable to feature in low-pressure training games for now, then it is unlikely that he will be risked in the Premier League title race any time soon.
Timber should be allowed time and patience when he is ready to return, and even if he does appear on the pitch as a substitute this season, it would be a surprise if he is included in a starting lineup at any point in the remainder of this campaign.
Pre-season would give Timber the perfect environment to return to regular action and build up his fitness. The pressure of the title race and the Champions League is too high this season, and Timber coming in without match sharpness would be a huge risk.