Big boost: £34m Arsenal star back in full training ahead of Napoli game

Arsenal right-back Jurrien Timber was involved in full training ahead of the Champions League opener against Napoli on the road on Wednesday night.

The 25-year-old did not feature for the Netherlands at the World Cup due to a nagging groin issue, and he has continued to remain on the sidelines.

Timber has not made the matchday squad since the Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain in May, but could feature against Napoli tomorrow.

In an open training session earlier today, the Dutchman trained alongside his Gunners teammates. He looks on course to make the Naples trip tonight.

Timber’s return would be a huge boost

Ben White has been ever-present for the Gunners in the right-back position this campaign. He has played 90 minutes in every game thus far and has a solitary assist to his name.

However, the Englishman has also struggled with injuries over the past few years. He missed out on the World Cup after sustaining a knee injury in May against West Ham United.

Hence, White’s workload needs to be managed to reduce the risk of another setback. Timber’s return would be a big boost as the Dutchman will provide good competition for places at right-back.

Timber, who was signed for an initial £34 million from Ajax in 2023, has generally been above White in the selection order for key matches when fully fit, but he could be used as a regular substitute in the near future to build match sharpness.

Arteta will conduct his pre-match press conference in Naples this evening. We should get a clear update on Timber’s condition and whether he can be involved in some capacity tomorrow.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

The post Big boost: £34m Arsenal star back in full training ahead of Napoli game first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.