Arsenal have received an encouraging update on defender Jurrien Timber after concerns emerged over his fitness during the club’s pre-season preparations in Spain.
The Dutch international briefly left the Gunners’ training base to travel back to London for scheduled medical checks as part of his recovery programme. The visit comes after Timber missed the recent FIFA World Cup because of a groin injury.
The fitness concern followed another difficult spell last season when an ankle problem ruled him out for around two months near the end of the campaign. Despite those setbacks, he recovered in time to feature in Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
With Arsenal preparing to defend their Premier League crown, supporters have been eager to learn whether the latest development signals another injury setback.
Routine medical review
Although Timber had joined his teammates before the squad travelled to Spain, he temporarily returned to England to undergo planned assessments on the groin issue that disrupted his international summer.
According to BBC Sport, the trip is a routine part of his rehabilitation and is not linked to any new injury concerns.
The defender, who is valued at around £60 million (€70 million), is expected to head back to Spain shortly and continue preparations with the rest of Mikel Arteta’s squad.
After establishing himself as Arsenal’s first-choice right-back last season, Timber featured in 30 Premier League matches as the North London side lifted the league title. The club is now focused on easing him back into full training without any complications.
Strong start to new campaign
Attention is already turning to Arsenal’s Community Shield showdown against Manchester City on August 16, with Arteta hoping to have as many key players available as possible.
A fully fit Timber would strengthen Arsenal’s defensive options ahead of the Wembley clash before the champions begin the defence of their Premier League title against newly promoted Coventry City on August 21.
The Gunners are expected to manage the defender’s minutes carefully as he continues his recovery, aiming to avoid another serious injury after the anterior cruciate ligament setback that severely affected his first season at the club.
