Arsenal injury news v Aston Villa: Latest updates on Timber, Jesus before Premier League match

Share This Post

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.”

Read our other football news stories here:
Iraola, Muniz scoop awards
Injuries no excuse, says Newcastle’s Howe
Newcastle United: Joelinton signs new deal

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.”

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).

Ben Miller
Ben Miller
Ben has more than 10 years' experience in sports journalism, covering two EURO tournaments, European club competitions, the Premier League, EFL and WSL and a variety of other major sporting events.

Related Posts

Steve Bruce: Blackpool ask ex-Newcastle boss to build ‘entertaining side’

Blackpool owner Simon Sadler has said Steve Bruce's "desire...

Toney to earn equivalent of £1m a week after securing Saudi switch

Ivan Toney is set to earn the equivalent of...

Scotland’s focused on qualifying for 2026 World Cup – McGinn

Scotland midfielder John McGinn has his heart set on...

Chelsea extend Nicolas Jackson’s contract until 2033

Chelsea have handed striker Nicolas Jackson a two-year contract...

West Ham 1-3 Man City: Haaland hits Premier League hat-trick again

Erling Haaland's second hat-trick in seven days continued Manchester...

Hurzeler and Arteta offer differing opinions on Rice’s red card

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler and Arsenal head coach Mikel...
- Advertisement -spot_img