Mikel Arteta has suggested that Jurrien Timber could take on a new role as he gradually returns to first-team action.
The defender sustained a long-term injury that sidelined him for much of last season, so Arsenal is being cautious with his reintegration.
The Gunners boast one of the strongest defensive units in England, leading to intense competition for playing time in their back line.
This depth means Timber might face challenges in securing minutes, but his talent makes him too valuable to be left out of the squad.
Arteta has indicated that he wants Timber on the pitch as much as possible and hinted that the Dutchman could be deployed in midfield.
Timber’s versatility was a key factor in Arsenal’s decision to sign him, and Arteta is pleased to have a player who can be effective in roles beyond defence.
He said, as quoted by Goal:
“Yeah, he is (in contention to play in midfield). He can play in various positions. His versatility is one of his biggest strengths. We missed him for 11 months. It’s great to have him back. He played some quality minutes the other day. Like Alex [Zinchenko] did too. I think Alex [Zinchenko] was really good in the first 60 minutes against Wolves. Having that capacity to find what the squad needs in that minute is really valued.”
Just Arsenal Opinion
Versatility is a big deal in modern football, and Timber is one of the few players who can play multiple roles well.
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Useless coach,,, after westing large amount on merino ……
Please define “westing”.
Did u say useless coach? Not sure u are in touch with football, kindly focus on watching formula 1 or some rugby games. U ain’t real on soccer
Now that’s a bit unfair, isn’t it
Timber looked strong in the midfield deputizing for Partey. With Merino, we have good depth in that department. The only thing I do not quite agree is Zinchenko, I think it is better for someone else to start and have Zinchenko come in later in a game. I still think a forward, a real one, will help us become more unpredictable, if Toney is available for 30M, get him and we are complete.
Actually, forwards make you predictable
A forward offers a new strategic option for us and our opponents will have to prepare for that. That is the variation that increases our unpredictability. For now, we are predictably missing a forward, which can be hard for us in some games.
In what midfield position would Timber plays from if he is deployed there? For certainly it can’t be the N0 6 position because of his Acl history. And for that reason, he SHOULDN’T be assigned a Cdmf role in the team this season. I would think.
He will play at left back against Villa or in the left 6 position, oh and Vieira has gone……back to Porto!
Wasn’t aware of Vieira going back on loan GB. I also wasn’t aware he was on such a long contract either. A loan makes sense
Finally the gaffer gives in, this is a habit notice in many coaches, their hand pick purchase not up to scratch, but they will back said player to the bone yard, this is not unique to the gaffer.
Viera did not live to his expectations. he better regain form at Porto
Have we found the perfect understudy for Saka since Reiss Nelson is like to leave Arsenal?
I trust the process; Merino in Viera out……… Let him gain experience at Porto , we can still recall him if need arises.
I did mention in one of my comments that I fore see Timber playing in Midfield.
I guess the pending loan move for Vieira will open more playing time for Nwaneri.