Arsenal stars Viktor Gyökeres, Jurrien Timber, and Noni Madueke were pictured arriving at the Sobha Realty Training Centre on Friday morning, boosting optimism ahead of Sunday’s fiercely anticipated north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
The trio’s presence at the training ground is a welcome sight for manager Mikel Arteta, who has been carefully managing several injury concerns during the November international break. All three players have recently been dealing with minor issues but appear on course to be available for selection at the Emirates Stadium.
Summer signing Viktor Gyökeres, who joined from Sporting CP in a club-record deal, has been recovering from a minor muscle problem picked up in the 2-0 win over Burnley earlier this month. The Swedish international was seen smiling and walking freely as he entered the facility, suggesting his rehabilitation is progressing well.
Defender Jurrien Timber, returning from Netherlands duty, also looked in good spirits despite a small leg cut sustained midweek. The versatile Dutchman has become a key part of Arteta’s backline since regaining full fitness following his long-term knee injury last season.
Meanwhile, winger Noni Madueke – another high-profile addition from Chelsea during the summer window – is closing in on a return after being sidelined since September with a knee complaint. His arrival alongside the rest of the group will give Arteta additional attacking options for what is always one of the most intense fixtures of the Premier League calendar.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta remained cautiously optimistic about the fitness of his squad. “The international break has given us valuable recovery time to a few players,” he said. “We’re assessing everyone day by day, but it’s positive to see them all back with the group.”
With Arsenal firmly in the Premier League title race and looking to extend an impressive run of form, the potential availability of Gyökeres, Timber, and Madueke could prove crucial against their bitter rivals. Kick-off on Sunday is at 4:30 p.m. GMT.
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