Mikel Arteta must avoid Bukayo Saka mistake repeat with Arsenal star against Man United

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Arsenal will not have long to bask in the glory of their Champions League thumping as they turn attentions back to the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta’s side were ruthless during their 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven, where fans were waxing lyrical over Ethan Nwaneri.

However, attentions have soon turned back to the Premier League and a tough trip to Old Trafford to face old rivals Manchester United.

Arsenal beat United 2-0 in the league at the Emirates Stadium but crashed out of the FA Cup on penalties to Ruben Amorim’s side. With a crucial return leg in the Champions League to come in quick succession, Arteta needs to ensure he is being sensible with his Arsenal squad.

READ MORE: Thierry Henry tells Mikel Arteta what Arsenal must do to win the Champions League this season

Mikel Arteta should not make Bukayo Saka mistake with Jurrien Timber

Jurrien Timber has made 37 appearances in all competitions this season and has been outstanding in the process, contributing two goals and assists alongside some strong defensive displays.

It is a remarkable achievement from the Dutch international considering he missed all of last season with a horrific ACL injury sustained on the opening day win over Nottingham Forest.

Timber has welcomed the return of Ben White to the Arsenal matchday squad following White’s own injury troubles and Arteta should consider resting Timber in the upcoming clash with United.

The Gunners boss does not want another key player out injured for the crucial end of season fixtures and Timber has played a lot of football this season, just like Bukayo Saka had before his muscular tear against Crystal Palace.

Managing players’ minutes and workload is something that Arteta needs to be considering and losing Timber ahead of the Champions League return leg and beyond would not be ideal for the club.

Jurrien Timber was outstanding against PSV Eindhoven

The Dutch Media were in awe of Timber for his display against PSV and his goal capped off an ‘almost perfect’ performance from the full back.

Arsenal will miss his tenacity and ability to defend one v one situations so comfortably should he be rested against United however, in White the Gunners have a more than capable replacement.

There is also a scenario further down the line in the season where Timber and White may feature in the same starting eleven with the Dutch defender also adept at playing left back.

Coming up against the likes of Mohamed Salah, Arteta may choose Timber to play up against the Egyptian star because of his incredible ability to dominate his opponent.