Former Tottenham star Rafael van der Vaart labelled Jurrien Timber as a’special player’ for Arsenal but recommended that the Dutchman should not be played in midfield for the upcoming NLD.
Timber signed for Arsenal from Ajax last summer but was ruled out of action early by an ACL, an injury that affects his knee.
He came back and has recently played mainly at the left-back position in the clashes against Aston Villa and Brighton.
Arsenal’s Midfield Crisis
Arsenal are grappling with a midfield dilemma ahead of their clash with Tottenham.
Martin Odegaard is out with an ankle injury, Declan Rice is suspended, and summer signing Mikel Merino is sidelined with a fractured shoulder.
These absences leave Arteta with limited options in midfield, with Thomas Partey and Jorginho likely to start.
While Arteta has left the door open on the suggestion of Timber playing in the midfield, Van der Vaart does not think this is the right time.
Jurrien is a great player who can be used in various positions but has not been utilised in a midfield position for quite some time, Van der Vaart said speaking to Metro.co.uk.
However, despite these challenges, Mikel Arteta has offered some motivational words to his struggling squad in preparing for the North London Derby match against Tottenham Sunday, as revealed by Sportsbuddy.
Mikel Arteta makes fascinating promise to Arsenal fans ahead of North-London Derby
Timber’s Bright Future
Van der Vaart has praised the defender, describing him as quick and possessing good aerial prowess.
“He’s so annoying to play against,” said van der Vaart, meaning that Timber has the potential of becoming a key player for the Gunners.
