Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has a major selection headache on his hands ahead of Saturday’s trip to Bournemouth, as both Ben White and Jurrien Timber have struggled with injury issues recently.
The Arsenal boss will not want to risk aggravating the defensive duo’s fitness concerns any further by rushing them back into action too soon.
Ben White would likely be willing to face the Cherries, no matter the state he is in.
White has played through injury all too often for the Gunners. Whilst the right-back’s ability to break through the pain barrier in service of his team is admirable, it is far from an ideal solution.
Equally, Mikel Arteta needs to handle Jurrien Timber with care. After an ACL injury decimated his campaign last time around, the Dutchman still needs to be treated with a degree of extra caution, as he is still learning to trust his body again.
Arsenal hope for Ben White and Jurrien Timber
It is clearly believed that both players stand a chance of being involved against Bournemouth.
As stated by journalist Charles Watts, speaking on his Inside Arsenal YouTube channel.
The reporter said: “Arsenal have given Ben White a lot of time to rest after the Manchester City game. The hope is that he’ll be back for this weekend. Same with Timber.”
Should neither player be deemed ready to start against the Cherries though, Arteta has alternative full-back options he can turn to. The likes of Riccardo Calafiori and Jakub Kiwior can slot in at left-back, whilst Thomas Partey has deputised at right-back already this season.
Arsenal injury concerns ahead of Bournemouth
Arsenal could be without plenty of players when they travel to the south coast.
This international break has not been kind to the North London outfit either. Gabriel Martinelli needs to be assessed having sustained an issue whilst away with Brazil. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka picked up a knock whilst on England duty.
Injuries have been an overbearing and unwelcome theme for Arsenal throughout this season so far. However, Arteta has always found a way to cope and his side remain unbeaten in all competitions.
The Gunners will travel to face Bournemouth with every intention and expectation of winning that match regardless of any absences they must contend with.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
