Mikel Arteta looks set to make a late call on Jurrien Timber ahead of Arsenal’s clash against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final
Ronald Koeman has provided an update on Jurrien Timber ahead of the UEFA Champions League final. The 24-year-old is in a race against time to rebuild his fitness ahead of Arsenal’s clash against Paris Saint-Germain at the Puskas Arena on Saturday night.
Timber suffered a groin injury during the Gunners’ win over Everton back in March, and he’s missed the last 14 games across all competitions. Despite fears that the defender could miss the showpiece event in Budapest, Hungary, the Netherlands head coach has suggested that he could be available for selection.
On Wednesday evening, Koeman announced his 26-man squad ahead of the World Cup. The 63-year-old called up Timber but left Jeremie Frimpong at home, citing his availability as a concern.
During the press conference, Koeman revealed that the Arsenal star was due to train with Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of the Champions League final. The former Everton boss said: “We have two players on the standby list: Ian Maatsen and Lutsharel Geertruida, and this is linked to Jurrien Timber.
“The situation with him is that he was due to train with the squad today, to see how things look ahead of the weekend. They have the Champions League final on Saturday. We’ll have to wait and see if he’ll make it.”
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As it stands, it remains unclear whether Timber will be named in the matchday squad when Arsenal face PSG this weekend. Mikel Arteta will be expected to provide an update on the Dutchman when he faces the press on Friday night.
Last week, when quizzed on the prospect of facing Luis Enrique’s side, Timber said: “Hopefully, yes. There’s hope, but like I said, we’ll see. I’m working really hard, I’m trying really hard, and obviously playing in the Champions League final is a dream.
“So I will give everything, and with the World Cup as well, but obviously, first the Champions League final. It’s going to be amazing anyway.”
Earlier this month, Arteta provided an update on Timber, who’s been spotted around the squad recently. The Dutchman joined his team-mates at the Sobha Realty Training Centre for the Premier League title celebrations last week, following Manchester City’s draw to Bournemouth.
Timber was also part of the trophy lift at Selhurst Park on Sunday evening. When quizzed on the defender’s role in the squad a couple of weeks ago, the Arsenal boss said: “He wanted to be very close to the team.
“He’s progressed a little bit in the past few days. He’s feeling better. We’re going to try to get him fit and available as quick as possible, but let’s see. He has been out now for a while, unfortunately.
“He is such an important player for us – we all know that – and he is doing everything that he possibly can to help the team in any capacity. We know his leadership, his quality and how much the team needs him.”
