Arsenal Facing Defensive Crisis Ahead of Southampton Showdown
Arsenal’s impressive unbeaten run faces a potential setback ahead of their Premier League clash against Southampton at the Emirates today. Mikel Arteta’s side, who have won their last three matches across all competitions, are widely regarded as the favorites in this fixture. However, the Gunners may have to cope without two key defensive players, Jurrien Timber and Ben White, according to recent reports.
Despite Southampton’s shaky start to their Premier League return, Arsenal’s depth will be tested as they aim to extend their fine form. Russell Martin’s Southampton side, who have yet to record a league victory, will be looking for any advantage they can take, especially if Arsenal’s defense is weakened.
On Friday, Arteta gave some positive updates on his squad’s fitness, hinting that Timber, White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu were all nearing returns from their respective injuries. “We have some good news,” Arteta mentioned in his press conference, hinting at the possible involvement of his sidelined players. However, the latest developments suggest otherwise for two of his stars.
Football.london reports that Jurrien Timber, who was substituted at half-time during Arsenal’s recent 3-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain due to a muscular issue, is now a major doubt for today’s game. The Dutch international has also been omitted from his national squad for the upcoming international break, which raises further concerns about his availability in the short term.
Ben White, who has been absent since picking up a knock prior to the PSG game, was not seen in Friday’s training session, sparking fears that he could also miss the Southampton match. With Takehiro Tomiyasu still recovering from a knee injury that has kept him out of action for the entire season so far, Arsenal could be facing a defensive crisis.
If both Timber and White are ruled out, Arteta may turn to alternative options like Riccardo Calafiori or Thomas Partey to fill in at right-back. It remains to be seen how this potential reshuffle in defense will impact Arsenal’s performance today.
Arsenal Facing Defensive Crisis Ahead of Southampton Showdown