Arsenal's defensive depth is being put to the test as the season reaches its thrilling climax, and Mikel Arteta has provided a crucial update on Jurrien Timber's recovery. The versatile full-back is racing against time to feature in the Gunners' Premier League title push and Champions League campaign.
Timber hasn't stepped onto the pitch since being forced off in the first half of Arsenal's 2-0 victory over Everton back in March. His absence has left a noticeable gap in the squad, especially now that Ben White has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a knee ligament injury. The right-back position has quickly become a headache for Arteta.
Despite not being match-fit, Timber has been a familiar face around the squad recently, attending games against Atletico Madrid and West Ham. "He wanted to be very close to the team," Arteta explained. "He's progressed a little bit in the past few days. He's feeling better. We're going to try to get him fit and available as quick as possible, but let's see."
Arteta didn't hold back in praising Timber's importance to the squad, both on and off the pitch. "He has been out now for a while, unfortunately. He is such an important player for us - we all know that - and he is doing everything that he possibly can to help the team in any capacity. We know his leadership, his quality and how much the team needs him."
The injury crisis doesn't end there. Riccardo Calafiori was substituted at half-time during Arsenal's dramatic 1-0 win at West Ham, leaving his availability for Monday's home clash against Burnley in doubt. "No, we don't know whether it's going to be a better one - we still have days ahead. Hopefully it's nothing serious but we'll have to wait and see," Arteta said.
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