Key Defender Limps Off vs Everton After Ankle Collision

Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber was forced off with an ankle injury during the first half of the Gunners’ Premier League clash against Everton, handing Mikel Arteta another injury concern ahead of the international break.

The Netherlands international went down after a collision with Iliman Ndiaye on 18 minutes, with the Everton forward catching Timber on the right ankle as he spun in behind. Despite initially attempting to continue, the 24-year-old was eventually substituted by Cristhian Mosquera on 37 minutes with the scores level.

Sky Sports cameras showed Ben White warming up as Timber received treatment on the pitch, highlighting the severity of the issue that forced the defender to leave the field.

Fresh Injury Blow for Arsenal

According to Football London, this latest setback adds to Arsenal’s injury concerns after Leandro Trossard was forced off during last weekend’s FA Cup win over Mansfield Town. The Belgian midfielder was absent from the matchday squad against Everton, joining captain Martin Odegaard who continues to recover from a knee injury.

For Timber, it represents another frustrating injury issue after his early Arsenal career was disrupted by fitness problems. The defender had previously missed the Gunners’ Champions League encounter against Kairat in January due to a niggle, and this ankle problem will spark fresh concerns given how he was forced off against David Moyes’ side.

Depth Tested Before International Break

Arteta was forced to deploy Mosquera at right-back to deal with Everton’s attacking threat, though the Spanish manager still has Ben White available as another defensive option. The timing is particularly concerning with the international break approaching, a period that has previously caused Arsenal injury headaches.

Speaking ahead of the Everton match, Arteta acknowledged his concerns about the upcoming international fixtures. The Arsenal boss revealed he maintains regular communication with national team coaches regarding player availability and fitness levels.

Despite the early setback, Arsenal secured a crucial victory through late goals from Viktor Gyokeres and Max Dowman. The win opened up a ten-point gap over Manchester City ahead of their Carabao Cup final meeting later this month.

The Everton encounter marked Arsenal’s final Premier League fixture before the international break, with their next domestic action coming against West Ham United. Arteta will now await the full extent of Timber’s ankle injury as the club prepares for a potentially pivotal period in their title chase.