‘Forget Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz’ – Man City man confesses, drops his rivalry with the Gunners as he names the Arsenal star that was the Best player against PSG but Havertz stole his Man of the match award

‘Forget Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz’ – Man City man confesses, drops his rivalry with the Gunners as he names the Arsenal star that was the Best player against PSG but Havertz stole his Man of the match award

Micah Richards has lavished praise on Jurrien Timber following Arsenal’s Champions League victory over Paris Saint-Germain, noting that the defender looks “fresh as anything” despite his lengthy absence due to injury.

Timber, 23, joined Arsenal from Ajax in a £34 million deal last summer but suffered a devastating blow in his Premier League debut, rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament. This injury sidelined him for nine months, a significant setback for both the player and the club.

Given the gravity of the injury, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has carefully managed Timber’s return to action.

The Dutch international has only completed 90 minutes on two occasions this season, but whenever he has been called upon, Timber has impressed, slotting seamlessly into the Gunners’ backline.

In Arsenal’s recent clash with PSG, Timber’s performance, particularly in the 45 minutes he played, caught the eye. His ability to adapt, whether at left-back or right-back, has added valuable versatility to Arsenal’s defence.

Richards, speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, was full of admiration for the defender. “You know who has been outstanding? Timber,” said the former Manchester City and England defender.

“Obviously he had his bad injury but he can play left-back, he can play right-back. When you have that long-term injury, it takes you a while to get back before you sort of get into your peak fitness. But he has come into the team and he looks fresh as anything. What a signing he has been!”

Richards, a known Arsenal supporter, also believes Arteta’s side have a legitimate shot at ending their 21-year wait for a Premier League title this season.

“With Rodri being injured, I’ve said it is 50-50,” he added.

“They have a genuine chance of winning the Premier League. I say that because of the way they can adapt the game, but really away from home, how they set up, how organised they are, how everyone knows their jobs.”

Richards concluded, “I believe they have a real chance of winning it.”