Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber is making a strong push to start in the UEFA Champions League final after returning to first-team training, according to reports from standard.co.uk. The Gunners squad resumed training at their London Colney base on Wednesday, following a two-day break after their victory at Crystal Palace. That win concluded the domestic season and secured the Premier League trophy for the club.
Timber's Injury Comeback
Timber has been sidelined for two and a half months due to a hamstring injury sustained against Everton in March. The question remains whether manager Mikel Arteta will risk fielding a player lacking match fitness against one of Europe's most formidable attacks. However, the defender has taken initial steps toward being considered for selection.
Optimism for the Final
Speaking to Standard Sport last week, Timber expressed optimism about his chances of featuring in the biggest match of his career. The Netherlands international, who has been named in his country's World Cup squad, shared his thoughts on the possibility of playing in the final. “Hopefully, yes. There’s hope, but as I said, we’ll see,” he said. “I’m working really hard, I’m trying really hard, and obviously playing in the Champions League final is a dream. So I will give everything, and with the World Cup as well, but obviously, first the Champions League final. It’s going to be amazing anyway.”
Timber's determination and hard work in training have given him a realistic chance of being part of the squad for the final, though Arteta will have to weigh the risks carefully.
