Jurrien Timber has handed Arsenal a timely injury boost in the lead-up to their Champions League clash against PSV on Thursday.
Timber joined the Gunners from Ajax in a deal worth a reported £34 million over the summer, but his Premier League debut was cut short after he limped off injured during Arsenal's 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest.
It later transpired that the Dutchman had sustained an ACL issue and would require surgery in a major blow to Mikel Arteta.
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However, the defender has since been spotted without crutches for the first time since his injury, suggesting a rapid improvement in his recovery.
Timber was pictured attending the club's traditional squad photo, alongside their Community Shield trophy and training ground dog 'Win'.
While Timber won't be fit in time to face PSV at the Emirates on Thursday, his recovery will delight fans.
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Perhaps, it is not too much of a surprise after Sky Sports reporter James Green claimed the injury "is not as severe as it could have been" last month, confirming he was "still walking the next day".
Posting on Instagram update after his injury, Timber wrote: "Gutted to share my injury is more serious than expected, especially after the warm welcome I’ve received.
"I wanted to repay you on the pitch, which will not be possible for the forthcoming period. I’m blessed with a lot of great people around me, together we will do anything to get back as soon and strong as possible.
"For now I’ll be supporting our team from the stands of course. Thanks for making me feel at home in such a short period of time, see you at The Carpet."
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Topics: Arsenal, Football, Jurrien Timber, Mikel Arteta, PSV, Champions League
Joe Adams