Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Gabriel Jesus’ “toughness and character” and said defender Jurrien Timber is closing in on a return from a knee injury he sustained on the opening day of the season.
Forward Jesus has also been troubled by a knee issue, missing three months of last season after requiring surgery on an injury he sustained with Brazil at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
“When you play every three days – especially at the level we play at – if you ask any player, they will say it is tough,” Arteta replied when he was asked about Jesus’ fitness.
“Gabi has this toughness and character. He has overcome some difficulties in terms of injuries and he is ready again.”
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While Jesus has been out for a handful of games with more minor knee and hamstring injuries in 2023/24, Netherlands international Timber has not featured since making his debut against Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium in August.
Arteta said the 22-year-old, who joined for an initial £34 million from Ajax last summer, still has “a few steps to make” in his recovery.
“He needs to play at least a game with the under-23s,” explained Arteta. “We’re going to have an in-house game, too. He’s done everything in training. Now it’s about getting him match-fit.”
That turn and finish 😮💨
💫 @BukayoSaka87 pic.twitter.com/sWDf2vDS0Q
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 12, 2024
Arsenal v Villa: No new injuries for Gunners
Arteta said he does not have any major new injury concerns following the Gunners’ 2-2 draw at home to Bayern Munich in their Uefa Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.
The Premier League leaders host fifth-placed Aston Villa on Sunday, meeting opponents who have had an excellent campaign under Arteta’s predecessor, Unai Emery.
“We’ve got one more day to prepare,” said Arteta. “We will see if everyone is available. Hopefully, with another day, we’ll be OK.”
Arsenal are level on points with Liverpool and a point above Manchester City with seven league matches remaining for each of the top three.
City will go top if they win at home to Luton Town on Saturday (3pm) but the Reds can reclaim the summit when Crystal Palace visit Anfield on Sunday (2pm).
