Mikel Arteta says injured Arsenal player is now ‘flying’ behind the scenes

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shared an update on Jurrien Timber as he continues to recover from his serious knee injury.

The Dutch international has been out of action since the opening game of this Premier League season. It’s such a shame that Arsenal fans haven’t been able to see him play regularly, but it looks like he is making progress on his recovery behind the scenes.

Mikel Arteta says Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber is ‘flying’

Arsenal signed Jurrien Timber from Ajax in the summer for £38 million (Sky Sports).

The 22-year-old became an instant fan favourite at the Emirates thanks to his fantastic performances in pre-season. Everyone expected a big campaign from him, but things haven’t gone to plan.

Timber suffered damage to his ACL on his Premier League debut in the opening game of the season. He has been out of action since, but he is hopeful that he will be back before the end of this season.

Mikel Arteta was asked about Timber’s recovery in his press conference yesterday, and the Arsenal boss seems really impressed with the work he has been putting in behind the scenes.

He said, as per Arsenal.com: “He is doing very well. Obviously, he’s going through a really significant injury but he’s flying to be fair, the stage he is right now.

“The way he works every single day is incredibly satisfying to watch but unfortunately we’re going to miss him still for a long time.

“[He is recovering] very fast. The first few steps are crucial for that injury, for the amount of work they have to do for the knee to be resolved and get some activity and mobility back and start to build the strength.

“Especially how the head is throughout that period, I think he’s in a really good place.”

Timber’s return could be massive for Arsenal

Arteta’s comments suggest Timber is nowhere near close to returning, but it really is good news to hear that he is ‘flying’ behind the scenes.

The Dutchman is a fantastic player. He can play anywhere across the backline and in defensive midfield, and when he returns, he will give Arteta a ton of options.

There is no return date yet for Timber, but it looks like there is a chance he will be back in action for the business end of the season.

That could be the boost Arsenal need to go all the way in the title race.