Arsenal have received an important injury boost ahead of one of the biggest matches of their season.
The Gunners continue their push for the Premier League title on Monday night when they host relegated Burnley at the Emirates Stadium.
Victory would move Mikel Arteta’s side another huge step closer to ending their long wait for league glory.
In recent days, however, concern had started growing around Arsenal’s fitness problems after fresh injuries struck the squad during the win over West Ham United.
Now Mikel Arteta has confirmed several players are moving closer towards returning. Arteta said:
“We lost Ben the other day but the others are coming back as well,”
“I’m so enthusiastic, so positive.”
The biggest encouragement appears to involve Jurrien Timber, who continues recovering from a long-term groin problem.
Arteta admitted the Dutch defender has finally made encouraging progress over recent days. The Arsenal manager said:
“He’s progressed a little bit in the last few days. We’re going to try to get him fit and available as quickly as possible, but let’s see.”
When asked whether Timber could still feature again before the end of the season, Mikel Arteta refused to rule it out completely.
Meanwhile, Riccardo Calafiori remains a doubt after picking up a problem during the victory against West Ham.
Arteta admitted Arsenal are still waiting to discover whether the Italian defender will recover in time for Monday night. The situation appears far worse for Ben White.
The defender suffered an MCL injury at the London Stadium and Arteta admitted the issue could keep him sidelined for a lengthy period.
At the same time, Arsenal have also received positive signs involving Mikel Merino after his recent recovery from foot surgery.
The midfielder has already returned to light work on the grass as Arsenal continue monitoring his progress carefully.
If Arsenal beat Burnley, they could officially secure the Premier League title on Tuesday should Manchester City fail to win away at Bournemouth.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
