Arsenal have received a welcome update on Jurrien Timber after the defender was named among the Netherlands substitutes for their Nations League clash with Serbia.There had been some concern over Timber’s fitness after he missed training earlier in the international break and was then left out of the squad for the draw against Germany.That came after a difficult period for the defender, who has only recently returned to action following another spell on the sidelines.Xavi confirms cautious approach with TimberAccording to The Standard, Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez has been in discussions with Arsenal’s medical staff over the defender’s workload.Explaining the situation, Xavi said:“We are now focused on [Thursday night], not on the rest of the matches. We are ready. We have to be a bit careful with Jurrien Timber, who was injured for a long time. But he is available, that goes for everyone.”That final point is the most encouraging one from an Arsenal perspective.Timber was subsequently named among the Netherlands substitutes for tonight’s Nations League clash with Serbia, confirming that he is available for selection again.(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)Positive news for Arsenal despite cautious approachTimber’s earlier omission had already prompted suggestions that he could strengthen the Dutch defence once fully fit.For Arsenal, however, the priority will simply be getting him through the international break without another setback.The defender underwent surgery during the summer and missed the opening matches of Arsenal’s season before gradually returning to action.With the Netherlands clearly taking a cautious approach, there appears to be no desire to rush him unnecessarily.Whether Timber gets minutes against Serbia remains to be seen, but simply being back in the matchday squad is another encouraging step.Are you pleased to see the Netherlands managing Jurrien Timber carefully, or would you rather he avoided international minutes altogether while he continues his recovery? Let us know in the comments._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsArsenal receive fresh Timber boost as defender returns to matchday squad27 September 2026, 18:00Report: Arsenal make contact over sensational Erling Haaland move27 September 2026, 17:00How do you punish Man City without rewriting football history? – Opinion27 September 2026, 15:45The post Arsenal receive fresh Timber boost as defender returns to matchday squad appeared first on Just Arsenal News.