Arsenal are scheduled to face Tottenham Hotspur in the first game after the international break.
The Gunners have had a decent start to the new season, winning two and drawing one of their first three games. Spurs, on the other hand, have won just one game so far.
The first North London Derby of the season will be at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and we’re sure the home fans will do everything they can to push their side on.
Arsenal have quite a few problems going into the game, but Mikel Arteta could do something to surprise Spurs and get another one over them.
Mikel Arteta should change Jurrien Timber’s position for Tottenham vs Arsenal
Arsenal will be forced to make at least one change for the game against Tottenham.
Declan Rice is suspended for the North London Derby following his red card against Brighton and Hove Albion just before the international break.
That complicates things for Arteta as he is also without summer signing Mikel Merino, who suffered an injury in his very first training session with the club.
The Arsenal manager has a few options to choose from, but we think he should surprise everyone and give Jurrien Timber an opportunity in midfield.
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The Dutchman has been superb for Arsenal in both full-back positions, but we think he has most of the characteristics a player needs to thrive in the middle of the park.
Timber is good on the ball, excellent in tight spaces and most importantly, his positional discipline is up there with the very best at Arsenal.
Only recently, an Ajax coach who worked with Timber confirmed that he is capable of playing in midfield, which is positive news.
We really think Timber in the middle of the park alongside Thomas Partey would give Arsenal the balance they need to beat Tottenham quite convincingly.
What will Timber offer in midfield for Arsenal?
Timber hasn’t ever started a game as a midfielder in his entire senior career, but that doesn’t mean he can’t play in that position.
Arteta has already confirmed that Timber can play in midfield, and we think he checks a lot of boxes for Arsenal in the middle of the park.
The most important trait Timber possesses is calmness on the ball. He isn’t fazed even when he’s under pressure and he has the ability to get himself out of trouble if he’s closed down.
To add to that, the £38 million Dutchman understands positioning really well. He already tucks into midfield whenever he plays at left-back, and he has always looked comfortable there.
Finally, as a defender, Timber has the awareness to stop dangerous transitions – that will be key against a side like Tottenham.
We really think Timber is the right man to replace Rice against Spurs, but whether Arteta will share the same view remains to be seen.