Arsenal have received a surprise injury boost ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea, with Jurrien Timber now in contention to make his return.
The Dutch defender has not featured this season after undergoing minor surgery during the summer and had initially been expected to remain sidelined until later in September.
However, Timber has progressed quicker than expected and is now back training with Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of the London derby.
Timber could make Chelsea return
Arteta confirmed that Timber is progressing well and has put himself in contention for Sunday.
“He's in really good condition at the moment,” Arteta said. “He's been training with us now, he's in a good place.”
Asked directly whether the defender could feature against Chelsea, the Arsenal manager added: “We will decide again tomorrow after training.”
A return would strengthen Arteta’s defensive options for what represents Arsenal’s biggest test of the season so far.
Bruno Guimaraes expected to be fit
There was also positive news regarding Bruno Guimaraes.
The midfielder was not spotted in first-team training on Thursday after suffering a knock during Arsenal’s victory over Aston Villa.
His workload has subsequently been managed, but Arteta expects him to return to training before the Chelsea game.
“He had a knock against Villa in the previous game,” Arteta explained. “He's been assessed, but probably tomorrow he will be OK to train.”
That puts Guimaraes on course to be available for the derby.
Rice available after Villa concern
Declan Rice is also fit despite being substituted during the second half at Villa Park.
There had been some concern after his withdrawal, but the England midfielder is available for selection against Xabi Alonso’s side.
Having both Rice and Guimaraes available would be a significant boost for Arteta as Arsenal prepare to face a Chelsea team that has also won its opening two Premier League matches.
Mosquera remains a doubt
The greater uncertainty surrounds Cristhian Mosquera.
The defender picked up an issue against Aston Villa and has subsequently been absent from training.
Arteta suggested his withdrawal was largely precautionary, although Arsenal will need to assess him during Saturday’s session before making a final decision.
“It was more precaution than anything else,” Arteta said. “We have to see tomorrow in the session how he feels.”
Key Points
- Jurrien Timber could make a surprise return against Chelsea after stepping up his training.
- Bruno Guimaraes is expected to train on Saturday and should be available for the derby.
- Declan Rice is fit despite being substituted against Aston Villa.
- Cristhian Mosquera remains a doubt and will undergo a final assessment.
- Arsenal host Chelsea on Sunday with both sides having won their opening two league matches.
What’s Next?
Arteta will get a clearer picture after Arsenal’s final training session on Saturday, with late decisions expected on Timber and Mosquera.
Timber’s potential return would be particularly welcome, giving Arsenal another defensive option for a major early-season test against Chelsea.
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