Mikel Arteta reveals Jurrien Timber is back available for Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has confirmed Jurrien Timber is ready for first-team selection after nine months out as Arsenal have a fully-fit squad for the first time this season.

Timber has been out since injuring his ACL on the opening day of the season against Nottingham Forest.

Ahead of Arsenal’s match against Bournemouth on Saturday, Arteta said: ‘Yes, everybody is fit and available. So now it’s the headache to make the right selection.’

The Dutch international played 45 minutes against Blackburn Under-21s last Monday and capped his return with a long-range strike. This was followed up by a 70-minute display against Liverpool Under-21s on Sunday.

Timber’s return comes in time for him to play a part in the Gunners’ bid to secure a first Premier League title in 20 years. The Gunners are top of the table, with Manchester City one point behind — though Man City have a game in hand.

On whether Arsenal will make David Raya’s loan deal permanent at the end of the season, Arteta added: ‘Those conversations are for after the season. We will review where we are.

‘Obviously, we are really happy with David and everything he has brought to the club and the team, there is no question about it. But, those decisions are taken by all of us at the club and we will see.’

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