Arsenal get Jurrien Timber boost from Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman

Arsenal right-back Jurrien Timber was substituted around 30 minutes from full-time on Sunday as Netherlands ran out 4-0 winners over Finland. 

It’s been a hugely productive international break for the Gunners defender, who appears to have staked his claim for a starting berth at centre-back for his country, alongside Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk.

Competition is fierce at right-back for Oranje as Denzel Dumfries and Jeremie Frimpong are also fighting for their place in Ronald Koeman’s starting XI.

But Timber has helped marshal Holland to back-to-back clean sheets during the break in one-sided World Cup qualification wins over Malta and Finland, respectively.

With 63 minutes on the clock, Timber – who has played a lot of football this season at club level – was withdrawn from the fray against Finland and replaced by Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke yesterday.

It was positive news for Mikel Arteta as it’s likely to keep Timber fresh for training this week ahead of Arsenal’s trip across the capital to Fulham on Saturday.

Timber’s displays have also offered a timely reminder that the full-back is equally comfortable at centre-back where he previously played at Ajax.

Speaking after the triumph over Finland, Van Dijk made it clear he’s been impressed by Timber this season.

He said of the Arsenal man: “A player who is in top form. When you’re with the Dutch team now and you watch the central defenders, there’s quite a bit of competition. You have to push each other and get the best out of each other. Ultimately, the national coach makes the decisions. But it’s pure enjoyment.”

The 24-year-old has been so consistent, he has successfully usurped Ben White as Arteta’s first-choice right-back. He has started six of Arsenal’s seven Premier League matches to date this season and also featured in the Champions League against Athletic Club.

Gunners icon Sol Campbell recently issued praise for Timber during an interview with The Times, stating: “I think Jurrien Timber is probably one of the best right-backs in Europe at the moment. He’s incredible, can score goals and is good in one-on-one scenarios.

“He’s definitely lost a little bit of time from his injury but he’s a top, top player. I think it comes down to the back five. They know what they’re doing now. They’re young, but it’s the maturity of their play now. The belief is there. They know they can do it.”