After Jurrien Timber illness issue, Mikel Arteta can finally hand Arsenal ‘warrior’ a full injury return

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Arsenal are nearing the end of their international break window, with many of their stars now featuring in their final games of the week before returning to the club.

It has been something of a mixed break for the Gunners on their travels, with some impressing while others struggle.

There has also been some mixed news on the availability front for Arsenal, with Riccardo Calafiori picking up a knee injury while away with Italy.

Gabriel Magalhaes has returned to Arsenal early, though that was due to a yellow card suspension, meaning he will avoid the risk of another injury.

Then there’s Jurrien Timber, who picked up an illness while away and had to be withdrawn from the Netherlands squad.

While it’s unclear just how long the defender will be out, it could open up an opportunity for a teammate to swoop in and take his place in the team.

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Ben White could get Arsenal chance after Jurrien Timber illness

Should Jurrien Timber face a spell on the sidelines to recover, Arsenal may need to make a change at right-back.

Thomas Partey has often been used there as a versatile option when there are very few others available to fill in.

That could all change though with Ben White’s recent return from injury, allowing him to fit into the lineup once again.

The 27-year-old hasn’t been able to start in the Premier League since making that return, simply handed short cameo spells so far.

With that time taken to build his fitness back up, Ben White could be available to select from once again, finally putting him back in the frame.

That full return could come against Fulham next up, with the Emirates Stadium a perfect environment to get him back in the side.

Whether Timber will be available is unclear, but White adds another level of security to the backline when there are absences.

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Ben White has been praised for putting his body on the line at Arsenal

There are often many misconceptions about Ben White, not least when it comes to his desire and will to win football matches.

However, his availability gives Arsenal a player who has been described by his teammates before as a “warrior”.

Even Mikel Arteta earlier this season revealed that they have to stop the defender from going above and beyond to put himself in the firing line.

He told the press: “He will run through a brick wall for you… He won’t ever tell you that he’s not fit.”

While it may have to be something of a judgement call on whether White can feature in the potential absence of Timber, there is a big decision to make in the next week.