Mikel Arteta was thrilled with the contribution of Jurrien Timber after the Arsenal defender starred in last night’s pre-season friendly win over Manchester United.
Much was expected of the former Ajax captain when he joined the Gunners last season from Ajax.
Timber, however, endured a nightmare season that was ruined by the cruciate knee ligament injury he suffered on the opening day of the Premier League season against Nottingham Forest.
The Netherlands international made his comeback on the final day of the campaign and is now, finally, back to full fitness.
Timber started his Arsenal career playing at left-back, but is comfortable in virtually every position in the back four.
Against United, he was asked to play at centre-half with Ben White slotting in in his now customary right-back role.
Asked to explain the rationale behind his decision to deploy Timber at the heart of his defence, Arteta said: ‘Making one change and not two.
‘It’s simple, and as well there is so much chemistry in that right unit. That relationship has been there for a long time and I believe at the moment that it’s better just to touch one thing.’
‘Now he’s getting the rhythm because obviously he’s missed a lot of football in the last year or so,’ added Arteta.
‘We’ve asked him to play in a different position than we had in mind due to the numbers and the players we have at the moment, but I’m really happy.
‘Just look at him, his pressing, his leadership, his composure. He’s like a new signing for us and a big addition to the team.’
Timber lined up alongside alongside teenager Ayden Heaven and Arteta also found time to praise the teenager who recovered well after making an early mistake that led to a goal for Rasmus Hojlund.
He said; ‘I don’t know how many players are able to do that on a stage like this. He’s lost a duel against one of the strongest and fastest players in the world.
‘It can happen, but the reaction afterwards, the composure, the quality, the body language that he had were all remarkable. I’m really happy with him.’
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