Timber hint, Saka boost - Things spotted in Arsenal training ahead of crucial Brighton clash

Arsenal have been handed a fitness boost ahead of their clash with Brighton on Saturday. The Gunners are two points off league leaders Liverpool but could close the gap this weekend if results go in their favour.

Mikel Arteta’s side have won nine of their last 10 league games to put themselves firmly in the title race with eight matches remaining. Arsenal appear to have learned some lessons from last season’s failed title bid, timing some of their best form for a crucial part of the campaign.

The team’s unbeaten run coincides with Arsenal getting key players off their injury list. Nearing a fully fit squad, the latest training pictures showed that Arteta has been handed another important boost for the run-in.

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The latest training session at London Colney showed defender Jurrien Timber taking part in first team training. The 22-year-old has been sidelined since August after suffering an ACL injury in his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest. Bukayo Saka is Arsenal’s only other fitness doubt ahead of their clash with Brighton.

A versatile defender, Timber would be a welcome return to the matchday squad as Arsenal face the prospect of juggling their Champions League campaign with a title race. However, despite taking part in training, Arteta has warned that it may be a while before Timber is back in the first team.

Asked about Timber earlier this week, the Arsenal boss 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