Recently, Goal talked about the outstanding performance of Arsenal defender Timber. They said that the player has performed brilliantly both in the club and in the Dutch national team. After experiencing a serious injury and missing most of last sea...
Recently, Goal talked about the outstanding performance of Arsenal defender Timber. They said that the player has performed brilliantly both in the club and in the Dutch national team.
After experiencing a serious injury and missing most of last season, the 24-year-old Timber has now performed well in both club and national team, winning the favor of Koeman. In the Netherlands' World Cup qualifying match against Malta, Timber started as a central defender for the first time. He not only accepted the challenge, but also completed the task perfectly. This was his first start for the Netherlands in nearly a year. Partnering with the experienced Van Dijk, the two successfully resolved all Malta's attacks and helped the team beat their opponents 4-0.
After the game, Timber said in an interview: "I can play in any position the coach needs me to play. I think this is one of my biggest advantages." He also praised his teammate Van Dijk: "I have proven myself in the central defender position. With teammates like Van Dijk around me, everything becomes easier." It's much easier. We kept a clean sheet and scored nice goals, so we are very satisfied."
Timber's flexibility has made him a valuable asset in the eyes of Koeman and Arteta. Although he plays as a central defender for the Dutch national team, Arteta often uses him as a right back at Arsenal. Timber also excels in this position with his tireless running and precise passing. As a reward, Arsenal have begun discussions with him about a new contract, with Arteta personally pushing for an extension to be completed as soon as possible.
When asked whether Timber would raise his salary, Arteta replied: "One hundred percent yes, especially those players we hope to keep for a long time. Timber is a good example. He suffered a serious injury early in his career, but his performance after his comeback was phenomenal."
Under Arteta's leadership, Arsenal has undergone earth-shaking changes. After three consecutive seasons of finishing second, the Gunners finally understand what it takes to compete for the title. This year, there is a new sense of belief throughout the team. During the summer transfer window, Arsenal introduced strong players such as Jokeres. Midfielder Odegaard continued to perform well, Saliba defended solidly, and Raya provided protection on the goal line.
However, among the many star players, Wilshere believes that Timber is Arsenal's invisible change. He said in an interview: "I particularly like Timber. Except for forward and goalkeeper, he can play in almost any other position. He is very aggressive, can win confrontations, and looks like a leader."
Since joining from Ajax last year, Timber has played 60 times for Arsenal, which is quite amazing considering that he has been absent due to injury. He has started six of eight games in the Premier League and Champions League this season, adapting seamlessly to whatever tactical system Arteta employs. With confidence rising and a new contract looming, Timber will feature again against Fulham. Arteta is expected to continue to start him, with his defensive versatility providing the Gunners with more options.
