Arsenal star hailed as ‘one of the finest players in the Premier League’ | Football

Former Ballon d’Or winner Ruud Gullit believes an Arsenal star is one of the best players in the whole of the Premier League.

The Gunners, bidding to become Premier League champions for the first time since 2004, are currently nine points clear of second-placed Manchester City – albeit having played one game more.

One of the reasons behind Arsenal’s success in the league this season has been their imperious defensive record, conceding just 22 goals in 31 matches.

And right back Jurrien Timber has been an integral part of the Arsenal rearguard effort, with the Dutchman singled out for particular praise by compatriot Gullit.

‘One player I really like at Arsenal is Jurrien Timber,’ Gullit told Gambling Insider. ‘He is very strong and looks convincing in everything he does.

‘He is a fantastic player and one of the finest in the division, which you have to be to be a regular starter in Arsenal’s defence at the moment.

‘I saw him in the youth teams at Ajax and he was always a good, strong player. I like the way he plays.

‘He doesn’t moan, he gets on with his job and is a real team player. As well as that, he is so clever tactically and talented technically.

‘He had a real setback with that long-term injury when he first joined Arsenal, but he has bounced back from that and adapted to the Premier League so well.’

Arsenal paid almost £40m to sign Timber from Ajax in 2023 but the Netherlands international – who has missed the last few weeks with a groin injury – has already gone a long way to repaying that fee.

Gullit has also heaped praise on Arsenal summer signing Madueke, insisting he has been a ‘really good signing’ for Arteta.

Eyebrows were raised when Arsenal spent over £50m to sign Madueke from London rivals Chelsea but Gullit has been impressed by the 23-year-old.

‘Noni Madueke is a good player, but he is having to play second fiddle to Bukayo Saka when both players are fit,’ Gullit added.

‘If both are fit, Madueke is on the bench. When he is on the pitch, however, he is very handy and always a big threat, and I actually think one thing that stands out about him is how hard he works.

‘As much as I think he is dangerous on the ball, I think it goes unnoticed how good he is off it, helping the team. He is doing well at Arsenal and has been a really good signing for them.’

Arsenal will hope to continue their march towards the Premier League title when they host Bournemouth on Saturday.

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