Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber’s versatility could be a negative thing moving forwards, and not something he should allow long-term.
That’s according to former Chelsea man Khalid Boulahrouz, via Voetbal Primeur, who does not believe that the fact Timber has played at left-back for Arsenal this season is a good thing.
Timber has returned to Arsenal’s starting line-up this season after spending last year out injured after picking up a cruciate ligament tear not long after his arrival from Ajax.
He had arrived as a right-back but has found himself playing at left back this season, with that area of the squad remaining something of a problem area for Mikel Arteta’s side.
He’s impressed in the role, with the Spanish boss alternating between Timber and summer signing Riccardo Calafiori so far this season.
That’s not been a permanent position for him, though, with four games played at left back, three at right back and one even in defensive midfield.
His versatility has proven to be a useful tool for Arteta as he looks to lead Arsenal to another title challenge and avoid the stumbles that have cost them in the last two seasons.
Khalid Boulahrouz isn’t feeling it, though, and instead worries for Timber’s career moving forwards if he continues to be moved around.
“Of course he is coming back from a serious injury,” Voetbal Primeur report him saying to Ziggo Sport.
“Then you are very humble and happy that you are in the starting line-up at such a great club. You enjoy that. But is it good for the rest of your career? No.
“Is it good to be versatile? It can be an option every now and then. If he were to play right back, that’s closer to his nature, but left back… No, that’s not what you were brought in for. You played centrally and you deserved it.”
