Ben White could be key for Arsenal when they face Chelsea this weekend, as the defender has three goals in his last three games against the Blues.
The 28-year-old has not played much football for the Gunners this season, but he could actually become quite important during the run-in.
Should Mikel Arteta start Ben White over Jurrien Timber for Arsenal vs Chelsea?
Over recent weeks, Jurrien Timber has looked shattered, and it is time for Arsenal to consider taking him out of the team for a bit.
Especially given the fact that the North London club have such a strong right-back option in White just sitting on the bench, waiting for his chance to play.
Ben White has three goals in three games vs Chelsea
Ben White has shown he loves playing against Chelsea, having won five out of his last seven games against the Blues.
The defender has already scored against them this season and now has three in his last three appearances.
He has clearly enjoyed facing the West London club, so Sunday’s clash presents Mikel Arteta with the perfect opportunity to utilise him.
White has not played much football this term, making just seven Premier League appearances for the Gunners.
An injury to Timber back in early December forced the Spanish manager to bring the full-back into the team, and he took the opportunity with both hands.
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White won Man of the Match against Brentford as he set up Noni Madueke’s opener in a crucial 2-0 win and sent a strong reminder of his ability.
However, White’s progress was halted by a hamstring injury; he’s now made just one start in the league since Christmas.
Now, there is no real excuse for Arteta not to bring the defender back into the team to face Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium.
Jurrien Timber must be rested and replaced by Ben White
More importantly, Timber has looked well off the pace over recent weeks and needs to be given a rest for the weekend’s London derby.
White is the obvious candidate; however, Cristhian Mosquera has also emerged as a new contender for the right-back spot.
Mosquera really impressed against Tottenham after replacing Timber off the bench during the 4-1 thrashing of their bitter North London rivals.
Regardless of whether Arteta picks Mosquera or White, he needs to make sure that Timber is given enough time off to recover.
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