Jurrien Timber has been absent for nearly nine months although his return arrived for the club’s Under-21s in April. The likes of Thomas Partey, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko have been plagued by injuries this season although all four played a part in Saturday’s victory.
However, during the opening stages of the game, Arteta was handed a slight Bukayo Saka injury worry that could play on his mind over the coming days.
Bukayo Saka
After just 15 minutes, Saka was on the end of a brutal set of challenges from Bournemouth duo Lewis Cook and Ryan Christie. The Gunners forward received some treatment with it clear he was fuming a card had not been awarded as he showed the cut on his leg to officials.
However, he carried on and scored in the game before being substituted in 86th minute.
What Arteta has said: “The one on Bukayo, is it on purpose or not? I don’t know so difficult for me to judge.”
Potential return date: Manchester United (A) – May 12.
Jurrien Timber
Timber suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury on the opening weekend of the Premier League season against Nottingham Forest, missing a large chunk of the season. The 22-year-old defender has recently returned to action, with two appearances for the Under-21s in recent weeks.
Finally, after nearly nine months on the sidelines, Timber could make his first-team return against Bournemouth – though a start is very unlikely.
Despite Arteta’s admission that all of his players were fit and available, the decision was made to leave Timber out of the matchday squad in favour of other more match fit players.
Injury: Knee.
Potential return date: Manchester United (A) – May 12.
Reiss Nelson
Nelson was omitted from the matchday squad that faced Tottenham at the weekend. Considering Arteta’s latest injury update, it is very likely he was left out simply because there are not enough spots in a matchday squad with so many senior players fit and available.
Injury: N/A.
Potential return date: Unknown.