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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has offered an injury update on Jurrien Timber after the defender was substituted in the Gunners' 2-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Earlier this Tuesday (October 1), Mikel Arteta's side registered their first win of the 2024-25 Champions League campaign. Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka scored one goal a piece before the break against PSG.
However, Arsenal were dealt a blow as Timber failed to return to the field after the half-time break. The 23-year-old Dutchman, who was out with an anterior cruciate ligament injury last season, was replaced by Poland international Jakub Kiwior in the 46th minute of the tie.
At a post-match press conference, Arteta was asked to shed light on the extent of Timber's recent injury. He responded (h/t football.london):
"He was unbelievable in the first half but he felt something muscular and he wasn't certain. He's played more minutes than we would have wanted in the past few weeks and we have to manage him."
Timber, who left Ajax to join the Gunners in a potential £38 million transfer in 2023, has started seven of his eight total appearances this campaign. He has racked up 568 minutes of action, providing one assist.
With Ben White also nursing a minor knock now, Arteta could decide to shift either Thomas Partey to right-back or play Kiwior in an unfamiliar role. His side are set to host newly promoted Southampton next in a Premier League contest on Saturday (October 5).
Arsenal star showers praise on teammate
Speaking to club media, Gunners star Martin Odegaard lauded David Raya for his double-save in his side's 0-0 Champions League draw against Atalanta last month. He said (h/t arsenal.com):
"It was difficult for us at times, but again it was a case of 'if you can't win, then make sure you don't lose' and we have David Raya to thank for that. What an amazing save again! I was watching it at home and I don't think I've ever seen any save like that before in my life!"
Odegaard, who is currently out with an ankle problem, concluded:
"He's been unreal since the start of the season, he's in great form and again it shows the strength we have as a team, because we have so many different ways to get results now."
Raya, who permanently left Brentford for £27 million earlier this July, has recorded five clean sheets in eight total appearances this season.
Last season, Raya kept 20 shutouts in 41 overall matches for Arsenal.
