Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Jurrien Timber is nearing his return to the pitch. The right-back, who has not played for the Gunners since last season's Champions League final, travelled with the squad for their 1-0 victory over Napoli in midweek.
Timber has continued to train with the team this week and could be available for Arsenal's Premier League clash against Sunderland on Saturday evening. His potential return would be a boost for the defending champions as they aim to maintain their winning start to the season.
Arteta also provided an update on Cristhian Mosquera, stating he is doing "really well" after missing recent wins against Chelsea and Napoli due to a knock. However, Mosquera might also miss this weekend's fixture. Ben White was reported to be fine after being substituted in the win in Italy.
Arsenal has won all three of their opening games in their title defence, including a 2-1 victory over Chelsea. Arteta cautioned his team about their upcoming match, recalling their last visit to the Stadium of Light where Sunderland ended their 11-match winning streak with a 2-2 draw last November.