Arsenal receive fresh Timber boost as defender returns to matchday squad

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·27 September 2026

Arsenal receive fresh Timber boost as defender returns to matchday squad

Arsenal have received a welcome update on Jurrien Timber after the defender was named among the Netherlands substitutes for their Nations League clash with Serbia.

There had been some concern over Timber’s fitness after he missed training earlier in the international break and was then left out of the squad for the draw against Germany.

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That came after a difficult period for the defender, who has only recently returned to action following another spell on the sidelines.

Xavi confirms cautious approach with Timber

According to The Standard, Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez has been in discussions with Arsenal’s medical staff over the defender’s workload.

Explaining the situation, Xavi said:

“We are now focused on [Thursday night], not on the rest of the matches. We are ready. We have to be a bit careful with Jurrien Timber, who was injured for a long time. But he is available, that goes for everyone.”

That final point is the most encouraging one from an Arsenal perspective.

Timber was subsequently named among the Netherlands substitutes for tonight’s Nations League clash with Serbia, confirming that he is available for selection again.

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Positive news for Arsenal despite cautious approach

Timber’s earlier omission had already prompted suggestions that he could strengthen the Dutch defence once fully fit.

For Arsenal, however, the priority will simply be getting him through the international break without another setback.

The defender underwent surgery during the summer and missed the opening matches of Arsenal’s season before gradually returning to action.

With the Netherlands clearly taking a cautious approach, there appears to be no desire to rush him unnecessarily.

Whether Timber gets minutes against Serbia remains to be seen, but simply being back in the matchday squad is another encouraging step.

Are you pleased to see the Netherlands managing Jurrien Timber carefully, or would you rather he avoided international minutes altogether while he continues his recovery? Let us know in the comments.

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