Xavi Simons named Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber as the toughest opponent he has faced so far during his career.
Simons has come up against his fellow countryman twice during the two North London derbies and been locked up on both occasions.
Fill in the blank: Jurrien Timber is now worth £__m to Arsenal
Timber has been enjoying a brilliant season at the Emirates Stadium, and is now one of the best right-backs in Europe.
Now, the Tottenham Hotspur attacker has been speaking very highly of the Dutch defender during a recent interview.
Xavi Simons says Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber is his toughest opponent
Xavi Simons believes that Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber is the toughest player he has faced, despite facing Gabriel Magalhaes and Virgil van Dijk.
Simons, who was linked with Arsenal last summer, enjoyed facing his fellow countryman, but also had a tough time on both occasions.
Speaking to ProDirect, Simons said: “Toughest opponent on the pitch? I would say the one that I’ve enjoyed the most, I would say, Jurrien Timber.”
Given that both Dutch internationals play on either flank, they were directly up against one another, but Timber came out on top twice.
During February’s meeting, Simons attempted four dribbles, but he did not manage to complete a single one against Timber.
Timber is now one of the most highly rated full-backs in Europe, given the level of his performances under Mikel Arteta this season.
Mikel Arteta needs to rest Jurrien Timber at Arsenal
Over recent weeks, Timber has looked slightly fatigued, and it is now time for Arteta to consider his options to replace him in the line-up.
Cristhian Mosquera impressed against Tottenham off the bench, and the Spaniard is an option to come into the team if needed.
Arsenal signed Cristhian Mosquera for just £13m. How much is he worth today?
Ben White is the obvious replacement for Timber; however, injuries have once again ruined the England star’s campaign.
White missed Arsenal’s win over Chelsea due to a minor issue and is unlikely to feature against Brighton on Wednesday evening.
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