Arsenal receive Jurrien Timber fitness boost ahead of Fulham Premier League clash

Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber is reportedly expected to be ready for the Premier League home meeting with Fulham on April 1.

Timber was included in Ronald Koeman's Netherlands squad for the UEFA Nations League quarter-final against holders Spain.

The 23-year-old missed Thursday's 2-2 draw in Rotterdam, with Netherlands confirming on social media that he was unable to take his place in the matchday squad due to illness.

Timber then withdrew from the squad prior to Sunday's penalty shootout defeat in Valencia, paving the way for Aston Villa's Ian Maatsen to earn a call-up.

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Arsenal handed fitness boost

While he would have been disappointed to miss the two legs against Spain, The Standard are reporting that Timber should recover in time to face Fulham at the Emirates Stadium next Tuesday.

Timber has a little longer to return to full fitness, with Arsenal not among the clubs in FA Cup action this weekend after being knocked out by Manchester United in the third round in January.

The Dutchman has been a regular fixture in Mikel Arteta's side this season, having featured in 40 matches in all competitions, contributing two goals and three assists.

Timber is particularly valuable to Arsenal because he has proven that he is capable of playing anywhere across the backline.

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What's the latest on Calafiori's injury status?

While Timber should be ready for Fulham, Arsenal will be concerned about the injury status of Italy international Riccardo Calafiori.

The defender withdrew from Luciano Spalletti's Italy squad after he sustained a knee injury in the closing stages of Thursday's Nations League quarter-final clash against Germany.

Calafiori may allegedly be out of action for around two to three weeks, meaning that he is set to miss next week's clash against Marco Silva's side.

There is also a risk that he could be absent for the Premier League away meeting with Everton and the first leg of Arsenal's Champions League quarter-final tie against Real Madrid.