football.london understands Timber is not expected to return to action until next year and is now in the 'recovery phase' of his rehabilitation, but Mikel Arteta has now provided a positive update on the Dutchman and praised him for how he has settled into the club. When asked on Friday about the 22-year-old and how he's adapted to Arsenal despite his injury, Arteta said: "Brilliant, absolutely brilliant.
"You talk to anybody in that building, everybody that gets close to him they’ll tell you he’s a really special character. We were really impressed when we signed him because when you see the player training in our environment you go ‘wow what an incredible player’.
"But that player had a really big setback and a difficult moment to go through. He’s been really special with how he’s gone through that situation, really special."
When asked whether Timber will be able to return to training on the grass soon, Arteta responded: "I hope so. Doing what kind of activity that’s something very different.
"He’s been for a few walks but that’s very far from competing. But he’s in a good place."
Timber started the season at left-back - suggesting he could replace Oleksandr Zinchenko in defence - but the Dutchman can play anywhere across the defence. The 22-year-old's versatility will prove to be a huge asset for the Gunners, who continue to struggle with injury concerns to the likes of Ben White, Thomas Partey and Emile Smith Rowe.
Timber's return next year could come at a crucial time of the season with Arsenal showing signs they are capable of challenging for the Premier League title once again. The Gunners are also looking strong in the Champions League and Timber will be hoping his side can secure qualification for the knockout rounds and remain in the competition for him to play a part later this season.
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