Arsenal injury news as Mikel Arteta shines light on Jurrien Timber scare

Arsenal have just finished their pre-season campaign. Over the weekend, they won the Emirates Cup with a win over Lyon, conlcuding the same week which saw them thrash Bayer Leverkusen. However, absent from both games was Jurrien Timber, which was a scare for Arsenal fans, especially considering his track record already.

In Timber's first season with Arsenal, he played only a short burst in the first match and a short burst in the last match of the campaign. This is because he picked up a lengthy injury setback on the opening matchday, which saw him ruled out of action until the final matchday. A player with plenty of promise, Arsenal fans anticipate Timber will be a key part of next season, providing he stays fit.

Arsenal injury news as Mikel Arteta shines light on Jurrien Timber scare

Speaking after the Lyon match, Mikel Arteta yet again shared a light on the Jurrien Timber scare, with a positive message for Arsenal fans ahead of the new season.

In his own words (via the club website), Arteta said: "It's fine. [Timber's] been doing some individual work, that's clear now. So we expect him to be ready to train with the group in the next week, because he has no reaction. So quite positive."

Jurrien Timber is a versatile defender who can play as a centre back or a full-back. He is an aggressive player, both defensive and offensively, which can be called upon in moments of need by Mikel Arteta.

It remains to be seen the extent which Jurrien Timber will be used next season. Unfortunately for the Dutch international, Riccardo Calafiori fits a similar bill to Timber and he has got off to a good start in pre-season. However, Timber could certainly be used on a rotational basis, so having him available for selection again would be a big boost for Mikel Arteta.

On the other hand, Mikel Arteta struggled to provide a positive light on Takehiro Tomiyasu's injury. The Japan international is now set to miss the start of the Premier League season.

Which role do you think Jurrien Timber will fill in the squad next season?