Arsenal handed Jurrien Timber first game back hint as Mikel Arteta reveals final injury step

Mikel Arteta has revealed thatJurrien Timber is continuing to work back from his serious knee injury. However, the Spaniard’s suggestion could mean that the Dutchman misses Arsenal’s next four games at least.

Speaking ahead of the Gunners’ clash with Luton Town on Wednesday, Arteta faced the media and providedpositive updates on both Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. The pair appear to be fine going into the midweek clash.

However, we await news of Timber’s long-awaited return to action but the Arsenal manager has revealed that we could be waiting some time longer. When asked about Timber’s recovery and potential return he said: “He’s doing very well.

“He’s back training, he’s not far off, the thing is that last step, he hasn’t played any minutes.

“Does he need a game with the Under-21s? Does he need two games?

“He’s constantly training with us to see how long that’s going to take him in that last part which is tricky and sometimes takes a while. Hopefully [he’s back] as quick as possible.”

Mikel Arteta provides positive Arsenal update on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli

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Adding when asked about playing before the end of the season: “I think he’s got a good chance. I don’t know a percentage but he’s got a good chance and he’s going to push it as far as he can.”

What was interesting about Arteta’s answer was the reference to the under-21 games. These are referred in recovery as ‘bounce games’, fixtures in which players get back on the field in a less competitive environment to test their readiness and get some valuable time on the field.

Timber was not given the chance during the international break to play in the behind-closed-doors