Article 1 of 2 Soccer Football – Premier League – Arsenal v Leicester City – Emirates Stadium, London, Britain – September 28, 2024 Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber celebrates after the match Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge/File Photo
LONDON, Sept 30 (Reuters) – Arsenal full-back Jurrien Timber has become the latest player to criticize the match schedule, saying he completely agrees with comments made by injured Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
Spaniard Rodri, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in the Premier League clash with Arsenal earlier this month, has warned of a possible strike as players face an expanded Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup.
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Timber missed most of last season with a cruciate knee ligament injury, but has played in all six of Arsenal’s Premier League games this season and is expected to start against Paris St Germain at home in the Champions League on Tuesday.
“I totally agree with them,” Timber told reporters when asked about Rodri’s comments. “It’s a big topic in the locker room. I didn’t play last season so I’m just enjoying playing now. I totally understand what they’re saying.
“Definitely (players are more at risk). I honestly think it’s a dangerous thing. Even last week we played City and City played two days later. It’s too much.
“I think it’s really a good thing that the players are speaking out now. It doesn’t look like it’s going to diminish. We try to be there in every game and do our best, but it’s getting more and more difficult. Especially in England where there’s no winter break.”
Arsenal drew their opening Champions League group game against Atalanta and will face a PSG side who are likely to be without striker Ousmane Dembele after reports he could be sidelined by manager Luis Enrique for disciplinary reasons.
The French club have several other players who are struggling to be fit to face Arsenal, including Nuno Mendes who missed their win against Rennes this weekend due to illness.
Lucas Hernandez (knee), Presnel Kimpembe (Achilles) and Goncalo Ramos (ankle) are all out with long-term injuries.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says Luis Enrique’s PSG will still pose a significant threat.
“They are really tough. They dominate every phase of the game. They have very clear intentions,” Arteta said.
“When they don’t have the ball, they want to get it back directly and they confront you. It’s Luis.
“Wherever he is, he plays in the same context.”
Arsenal are concerned about full-back Ben White, who missed the 4-2 win over Leicester City at the weekend, while Riccardo Calafiori is also a doubt.
“These two players are in contention. We didn’t do any training yesterday. (Calafiori) was a bit emotional after the match. Let’s see how he is today,” Arteta said.
Reporting by Martyn Herman Editing by Christian Radnedge
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