Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has backed Gabriel Martinelli to step up and fill the void left by Bukayo Saka, expressing confidence in the Brazilian’s ability to deliver during the winger’s lengthy injury absence.
Saka is expected to be sidelined until March after undergoing hamstring surgery, leaving Mikel Arteta searching for attacking solutions.
Softfootball understands Timber believes Arsenal have enough quality within the squad to cope with the setback.
The Netherlands international acknowledged Saka’s importance but insisted Arsenal have overcome difficult situations before. He said:
It’s not the first big challenge this season that we have faced. Everyone knows how important Bukayo is for us and what he did for Arsenal for the last couple of years. Of course, it is a bit different to Bukayo.
Timber also praised Martinelli’s versatility and believes the Brazilian is ready to make a major impact.
He added:
Gabi has shown already a couple of times that he can play both sides. He’s a big threat for every defender, and I think he is going to show it as well.
