Can Arsenal star recover in time for the FA Cup trip to Southampton?

Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber is still dealing with the groin problem he sustained against Everton earlier this month, although the injury is not considered serious.

Timber has missed Arsenal’s last two matches and also withdrew from the Netherlands squad during the international break as he continues his recovery.

The defender picked up the issue during Arsenal’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton on March 14.

Medical staff at the Emirates have been carefully managing the problem in recent days to prevent it from worsening during a crucial stage of the season.

While the injury has forced him out temporarily, there remains optimism that Timber will return soon.

The 24-year-old is targeting a comeback when Arsenal travel to face Southampton in the FA Cup quarter-final after the international break.

Such a return would provide a timely boost for Mikel Arteta as Arsenal enter one of the most decisive periods of their campaign.

The trip to Southampton is followed just three days later by a Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash away to Sporting CP.

Arsenal will then return to Premier League action with a home match against Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are still competing on multiple fronts this season, making Timber’s availability particularly important.

Since arriving from Ajax, the Dutch international has become a versatile defensive option for Arteta.

Timber has featured both at right-back and in central defence during the campaign, offering Arsenal tactical flexibility across the back line.

His composure in possession and defensive awareness have made him an increasingly important part of the squad rotation.

That versatility is especially valuable during periods when Arsenal must balance domestic and European commitments.

Although Timber’s absence has been manageable so far, Arteta will be keen to have the defender available again before the schedule intensifies further.

The timing of the international break has at least provided the player with additional recovery time.

Arsenal’s medical team are now focused on ensuring Timber returns fully fit rather than risking a premature comeback.

If his rehabilitation continues as expected, the Dutch defender could be back in contention for the FA Cup quarter-final at St Mary’s.

That would allow him to play a role in what promises to be a demanding run of fixtures for Arsenal.

For now, the club remain cautiously optimistic that Timber’s setback will only keep him sidelined for a short period.

The post Can Arsenal star recover in time for the FA Cup trip to Southampton? first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.