Mikel Arteta has now shared if a ‘special’ Arsenal star will feature later today against Chelsea in the Premier League.
The Gunners welcome their London-based rivals tonight in what is a must-win game for Arsenal, with Arteta and his side eager to build from Saturday’s victory away against Wolves with another huge result at the Emirates Stadium.
A win tonight will put Arsenal four points clear of Manchester City, who travel to Brighton & Hove Albion on Thursday night as Liverpool take on Everton tomorrow in the Merseyside Derby, meaning three points today could be influential in the title race for the Gunners.
And Arteta has now said if one Arsenal player will be back in the mix for selection
Arteta says Jurrien Timber ‘looks ready’ to return for Arsenal vs Chelsea
Speaking to the press via Arsenal’s official website, Arteta said Jurrien Timber ‘looks ready’ to return to senior action with the Gunners, with the defender finally making his comeback last night for the U-21s against Blackburn Rovers.
Lauded by Arteta as a ‘special’ player, Timber impressed on his return to the field with Arsenal as fans were blown away by the defender’s sensational goal at Ewood Park, and there might be a small chance that the youngster is now involved tonight.
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Arteta said when asked if Timber is ready to feature for Arsenal tonight against Chelsea: “That’s a quick step. Let’s see how he feels today. He’s been training really good. He looks ready.
“He needs that exposure and after that, we’ll assess whether that game comes at the right time or too fast. We’ll try to get him with us for the final games.”
Timber should not be rushed back with five games left to go
Having scored a screamer in his comeback game for Arsenal, it’s pretty obvious why supporters are keen for Timber to be brought back into the senior set-up as quickly as possible.
However, with five games left to go this season, the hope for supporters should be for Timber to just make a matchday squad in the remaining fixtures of the campaign, with getting the defender fully fit for next year the priority.
Indeed, Timber will be eager to return to action for Arsenal next season, yet having recovered from an ACL injury, the Gunners know they need to be cautious with the defender, who might have lost a lot during the process.
