Arsenal handed huge boost as key duo could return from sidelines for Southampton clash: Reports

Arsenal gaffer Mikel Arteta has hinted at the possibility of the defensive duo of Jurrien Timber and Ben White returning to the squad for their Premier League clash against Southampton on Saturday (October 5).

White missed Arsenal’s last three games with a reported groin issue, while Timber was hooked at half-time in the mid-week against Paris Saint-Germain in a precautionary move by Arteta. In the pre-match press conference ahead of the Southampton fixture, the Spanish tactician said the defenders would be checked on Friday afternoon.

“There’s a decision to make this afternoon, whether to involve them or not,” he said (via Independent).

“They are close,” Arteta added, referring to both Timber and White.

The Dutch international, after a long injury lay-off last season, has been instrumental in elevating the Gunners' backline. The 23-year-old has made eight appearances this season and nicked an assist too from the full-back spot.

Meanwhile, Ben White, who terrorized opposition defenses last season from the right-back position, has been sidelined for a couple of matches already. But his return would be a major boost for Arteta and Arsenal. Throughout the week, the defensive duo had been training individually to manage their load, according to X account @now.arsenal.

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Mikel Arteta uncertain about Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard's injury return timeline

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta offered a sobering update on Martin Odegaard’s injury status, confirming that the club captain will be sidelined until at least after the October international break.

Odegaard, who suffered the injury while on international duty with Norway, has missed several Premier League fixtures already, and there is no clear timetable for his return.

“Martin is very difficult. I expected him to still have a boot on and other things - he’s working hard, feeling good and pushing. It’s difficult to give a timeline,” Arteta admitted (via Independent).

Odegaard’s absence has been a blow for the Gunners, however, there is more optimism regarding some of the other injured players in the squad.

Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has been out with a calf injury, is expected to return after the upcoming international break. A hopeful Mikel Arteta said:

“Oleksandr will probably be back after the international break, if everything goes well. He’s progressing really well.”

Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is also nearing a return after a knee injury. While he’s yet to feature this season, Arteta suggested that his comeback could be close. Meanwhile, Kieran Tierney’s inclusion in the Champions League squad signals that he could be edging closer to full fitness after his hamstring injury during Euro 2024.