Arsenal star Jurrien Timber has become something of a fitness doubt over the past few days, following an illness he picked up while on international duty.
The defender has been a key option for Mikel Arteta throughout the season, with his solid defensive performances and versatility coming in handy for the side.
With Jurrien Timber being back at his best for Arsenal, there was a call-up to the Netherlands squad for their UEFA Nations League double-header with Spain.
The 23-year-old was unable to feature in either match though, with Timber picking up an illness that ruled him out.
A return to London Colney has followed as he looks to recover from the situation in time for the final run of the season with the Gunners.
Jurrien Timber expected to recover from illness for Arsenal vs Fulham
While there is a wait to see whether Timber will be available for Arsenal in the near future, there is something of a boost ahead.
The Gunners don’t feature in the FA Cup over the weekend and instead get an extra few days off before facing off with Fulham in the Premier League after the international break.
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That could be enough time for Timber to recover as reporter Simon Collings claims that the defender is expected to make a return soon.
It comes as a huge potential boost, given the matches ahead, that the Dutch international can get himself back in contention once again.
He has been one of three players in the backline to withdraw early from international duty, due to a mixture of reasons.
Riccardo Calafiori picked up a knee injury that saw him leave the Italy camp, with assessments ongoing regarding that issue.
Beyond him, Gabriel Magalhaes returned to Arsenal early as he picked up a yellow card that suspended him from the next Brazil match.
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Arsenal may lean towards Ben White pick anyway
While Timber may be fit and available, Arsenal could always lean towards giving Ben White his first start in the Premier League since returning from injury.
The star defender has only been handed a handful of cameo appearances since being available once again, building up his fitness as he goes.
White could be an important option going forward, not least in the Champions League in the weeks ahead.
Timber is one yellow card away from a Champions League suspension, putting him at risk of missing the Real Madrid clash or even the semi-final if Arsenal reach it.
If the Dutch star is out, then White will be called upon for a key match and he will need to be ready and firing.
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