It has been a long time coming, but Jurrien Timber made a return from injury for Arsenal’s U21s on Monday night.
The 22-year-old suffered an Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury on the opening day of the Premier League season against Nottingham Forest.
It was a gutting moment for the player and the football club because he was one of the shining lights for Arsenal in pre-season.
Jurrien Timber’s ability to play across the back four was going to take Arsenal to the next level, but for eight months, they have had to do without his talents as they now continue to push for the Premier League title.
But what a way to mark your return from an ACL tear than by scoring a goal against Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park?!
That feeling of being back on the pitch again and then putting the ball into the back of the net would have been one of relief and pure elation for the player.
Timber’s return didn’t just please the player, his club and the supporters, but also his fellow countryman.
Newcastle United’s Sven Botman, who suffered his own season-ending ACL injury in March, wrote him a message on Instagram.
Jurrien Timber scores upon injury return for Arsenal’s U21s against Blackburn Rovers
Botman wrote in the comments section of Arsenal’s Instagram post: ‘What we want to see’.
Arsenal against Chelsea
This match will be too soon for Timber, but at least the fans now know that he is closer than ever to donning the first-team colours again.
Arsenal will host London rivals Chelsea on Tuesday night knowing three points would send them four clear of Manchester City – who would have two games in hand.
Yes, the ball would still be in Man City’s court, but at least it would put pressure on the current champions.
And then to round off the week, it’s the small matter of Arsenal facing their north London rivals Tottenham.
Perhaps fans will get to see Timber return for that game!?