Mehmet Ali has shared his verdict on the performance of Jurrien Timber after the Arsenal defender made his return from injury for the under-21s on Monday, as he also explained what the youngsters did for the Dutchman before the game.
Arsenal have been handed a massive boost ahead of the final stages of the Premier League season.
Jurrien Timber, of course, has been sidelined since the opening day of the campaign. Timber hurt himself making a challenge on Brennan Johnson. And unfortunately, he has not featured for Mikel Arteta’s side since.
It remains to be seen if he can play a part in Arsenal’s title push on the pitch. But it would have given everyone a lift to see Timber back in action on Monday.
Timber started for the under-21s against Blackburn. And he marked his return with a stunning goal, finding the top corner from the edge of the penalty area.
Mehmet Ali reacts as Jurrien Timber returns to action for Arsenal under-21s
Of course, regaining his fitness and match sharpness is the most important aspect to Timber’s return. But speaking to Arsenal’s official website after the 2-2 draw, Mehmet Ali suggested that he was really impressed by the 22-year-old.
“It’s been great having him and the lads gave him a round of applause in our pre-match meeting. It’s never easy to be a professional footballer and suffer the injury that he had and miss a lot of football,” he said.
“He’s come into a new country and it’s been difficult for him but since his return, he’s been excellent. Whether that’s been training with the first team or training with us, he’s been a real good role model for the younger players and his performance showed that this evening.
“He scored a very good goal showing tremendous ability to execute that finish. His decision-making and his whole performance for 45 minutes was very strong and the players will learn a lot through watching him.”
Gunners in line for huge boost
The left-back position has been a bit of an issue for Arsenal over the season. Oleksandr Zinchenko has been criticised at times. And the likes of Jakub Kiwior and Takehiro Tomiyasu are not as impressive as the Ukrainian when it comes to getting forward.
Arteta will not be rushing Timber back. He has been out for such a long time. And the last thing Arsenal need is for the youngster to suffer a setback.
It is easy to forget how young Timber is as he is so accomplished already. So Arteta will be wary of putting any pressure on him.
It will be huge for Arsenal if he can even play any part in the match day squads in what remains of the season.
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