Last updated: 5 October 2026, 21:00 BST.
Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber remained an unused substitute in the Netherlands’ win over Serbia on Sunday as his return to full fitness continues to be managed.
The decision followed his start against Greece on Thursday, when he partnered Virgil van Dijk in central defence.
According to The Standard’s report, syndicated by AOL, his absence is not believed to represent a fresh injury concern. Timber had explained before the match that medical staff were taking a cautious approach.
What has Jurrien Timber said about his fitness?
Speaking to De Telegraaf, in comments carried by The Standard, Timber said:
“I have to be very smart about the steps we take, otherwise I’ll suffer a setback and I don’t want that.”
The defender also explained that he needed to follow the physios’ advice despite wanting to participate in every match and training session.
After the Greece game, he had acknowledged feeling tired while rebuilding his rhythm following his lay-off. Those comments described his recovery rather than announcing another injury.
Arsenal have already managed Timber’s workload by resting him against Ipswich, with Mikel Arteta confirming at the time that he had avoided a setback.
What does this mean for Arsenal against Leeds?
Sunday’s omission does not establish whether Timber will start against Leeds at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
His readiness will be one consideration as Arteta assesses Arsenal’s defensive options following the returns of Ben White, Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.
The Gunners are also monitoring Ezri Konsa after his withdrawal from England duty.
Comments.
Loading comments…