Meanwhile, Tomiyasu has missed the entirety of the campaign so far with a knee issue but returned to training earlier this week and is in the frame to play against the Saints. As for Zinchenko, the Ukrainian won't be ready in time for the visit of Russell Martin's side, as he continues to suffer from a calf injury.
Arsenal Duo Could Play Against Saints
Zinchenko is weeks away from a return
Michael Oliver and Jurrien Timber
Injuries have been a feature of Arsenal's season so far, with the likes of Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard absent for much of the campaign, causing issues for Arteta in his midfield selection. However, due to the extensive depth at the Spaniard's disposal, the fitness problems his defenders have suffered have gone under the radar.
Versatile full-back Timber spent almost the entire duration of his debut campaign in North London on the sidelines, but has started the new season in fine form. The Ducthman's impressive display in midweek against PSG was dubbed 'unbelievable', although he was forced off as a precautionary measure at the interval.
Given he's still in partial rehabilitation following his serious injury, minor set-backs are inevitable, and he's in contention to play some part in the Gunners' fixture against Southampton at the Emirates on Saturday.
"We had to modify training for a lot of players. We’ve done the same today because of the load that they had, so it’s a decision to make this afternoon, whether to involve them, yes or no. They [White and Timber] are close, and Tomiyasu as well is quite close to being involved, so good news.
"Alex [Zinchenko] probably after the international break if everything goes well. He’s progressing really well. Martin [Odegaard] is very difficult, I expected still with the boot and a lot of things and he’s working so hard and is feeling good and is pushing it so it’s difficult to give a timeline."
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