Arsenal to Rest Jurrien Timber in Carabao Cup Tie

Arsenal will take no chances with Jurrien Timber tonight, with the defender set to sit out the Carabao Cup tie against Ipswich as a precaution.

The Netherlands international made his first appearance of the season in Saturday’s Premier League win over Sunderland, stepping off the bench to replace Ben White, who went off in the first half with a muscular problem. Timber’s return marked the end of a long spell out with a groin issue, but his comeback will be carefully managed.

Despite being fit, Timber is expected to be left out of the squad at the Emirates this evening. The decision is understood not to be related to any setback with his long-term groin injury, but to Arsenal’s desire to ease him back after his extended lay-off. No risks. Not in September. Not with a player they see as a key part of the season ahead.

Mikel Arteta is also likely to rotate heavily, with several senior players in line for a rest against Ipswich as Arsenal juggle early-season demands.

White, meanwhile, has undergone a scan to assess the damage from the issue he picked up at the Stadium of Light. Arsenal are yet to confirm the severity of the injury, but the defender is expected to miss the clash with Gary O’Neil’s side as the club waits for a clearer prognosis.