Mikel Arteta: Arsenal's Jurrien Timber has 'chance' of recovering before season end

Timber has not featured since Arsenal's 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton at the Emirates on March 14, when he was forced off during the first half with a groin injury.

The Dutch international has now spent two months on the sidelines after being a key figure throughout the season.

The defender has made 43 appearances across all competitions and has played an important role in Arsenal's push on multiple fronts.

Arteta confirmed the club's medical staff are continuing to work Timber back to fitness in the hope he can feature again before the season concludes.

Arsenal still have two league matches remaining, beginning with Monday night's clash against Burnley before a final-day trip to Crystal Palace on May 24.

The Gunners then face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League Final in Budapest on May 30, which appears to be the target date for Timber's comeback.

"He has progressed a little bit in the last few days," said Arteta when asked about Timber.

"We will try to get him back and available as quick as possible. He's doing everything he possibly can to help the team in any capacity."

On his chances of returning before the end of the season, he said: "There is a chance, but how big that chance is I cannot tell you."

Arsenal's defensive concerns have also been compounded by the absence of Ben White, who has already been ruled out for the remainder of the season through injury.

"We need to look at alternatives, the two players that we have are not available at the moment so we need to look and do something else," added Arteta.

"The good thing is we have experienced that all over the pitch this season because when we had issues they have normally been in the same positions as well and we have still managed to find the same level of performance and consistency."

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