Mikel on selection dilemma and Timber availability | Quotes | News

As we approach the end of the 2023/24 season, Mikel Arteta is spoilt for choice with options in his first-team squad.

Discussing his weekly selection headaches in his pre-Tottenham Hotspur press conference at Sobha Realty Training Centre on Friday afternoon, Mikel pointed out that it’s a good problem to have.

“It’s good headaches though,” he said. “Yes, you feel for the players a bit as well because of how much they want it and how much everyone wants to start and contribute to the team and impact the team in the right way, so it’s always difficult and it’s part of the job.

“As well, they’re fully ready to come on the pitch at whatever time we need them to try to help us win the matches. Their spirit is so good.”

Of the current first-team squad, Jurrien Timber is the only player who has yet to return to full fitness, but has made positive progress this week with an excellent goal for our under-21s.

“We have to make that decision tomorrow after the training session,” Mikel said on Jurrien. “He’s very close, I don’t know if this is too early, but he’s very close now.”

Click here to read every word of Mikel’s press conference.