The defensive revival by Mikel Arteta at Arsenal has been as spectacular as it could be. But there is one dominant figure in his team and Premier League which is Jurrien Timber. Jurrien Timber is now the hardest defender in the Premier League to dribble through this season. He has a staggering 91 percent success rate in genuine attempts of tackling. Timber is redefining the role of full back longevity to keep The Gunners at the top of the table.
Opta Stats Spotlight: Unmatched Tackling prowess.
The picture of Timber by Opta data is very graphic. The 24-year-old has reduced five dribbles on 57 attempted tackles. This is more than Sunderland’s Reinildo Mandava (89%) and Michael Kayode, the Fiorentina loanee. Timber played mainly on the right back position. Although he can play in the middle but 3.9 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes reveal his all-action approach. He has turned potential into performance after the recovery of ACL, and it is the high-pressing spirit of Arteta.
The backline of Arsenal, led by William Saliba and Gabriel, allows 0.89 goals per game. This is the lowest in the league, and the key ingredient is the advantage of Timber in terms of one-on-one duels. His progressive carries (four already) provide an attacking aspect and he cannot be missed.
Other than Numbers: Mental Strength.
The difference between Timber and statistics is not only statistics, it is steel. The Arsenal opponents come nearest to the goal with the utmost defenses in the league. However, Timber is at home in the cauldron. Rated one of the best in the PL by Sports Illustrated, he is muscling and outwitting opponents, reminiscing Saliba world-class posture.
The Road Ahead
With the Gunners targeting silverware, Timber being unbeatable may be the leverage. Arsenal are in a title race that is marked with margin, and their wall of Timber is the tallest, made of stone, impossible to break.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
