Mikel Arteta has given an encouraging injury update ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip, with Jurrien Timber edging closer to a return.

The Gunners head to the Stadium of Light looking to maintain their perfect start to the league season after winning their opening three matches.

A victory over Sunderland would also see Arsenal become only the sixth side in the club’s history to win their first four league games of a season.

However, Arteta expects a difficult test against a Sunderland side that has already shown its quality this season, including victories over Brentford, Fulham and Hull City in cup competition.

One of the major positives for Arsenal is the progress being made by Timber, who has been working his way back to full fitness following injury.

Arteta confirmed that the Dutch international is doing well and could potentially return against Sunderland, although the final decision will be made after the team’s last training session before the trip.

“He looks in good shape. He’s doing really well, let’s see if he can get this game or the next one,” Arteta said.

Arteta reflected on Arsenal’s injury problems last season, admitting that it can be challenging to manage player workloads when key defenders are forced to spend long periods on the sidelines.

Timber’s potential return would therefore provide Arsenal with another defensive option as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures.

Arsenal will now assess the defender after their final training session before Arteta makes a decision on whether he is ready to feature against Sunderland.