Mikel Arteta issues major injury update on key defenders ahead of Arsenal clash vs West Ham

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says Ben White’s knee surgery 'went really well' - but the club are still being very cautious regarding his rehabilitation.

The right-back is expected to be out until around March after undergoing the operation this month. White had been struggling with his knee for the majority of this season, and so the decision was taken to go to theatre to fully amend his problem.

The 27-year-old had missed four games due to his knee at the end of September and start of October. He will now not be available for a few months, but the hope is that he will return to full fitness in time for the run-in period.

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Asked about White’s surgery on Friday, ahead of Arsenal's trip to West Ham United on Saturday, Arteta said: “Still early days - the surgery went really well; there is no reaction after that.

“He is improving day by day, but it is a process for the first four to six weeks, where we have to be really cautious and don’t put any stress on that knee. Then we will see how quickly he can recover and how it reacts after that.”

Jurrien Timber played at right-back against Nottingham Forest and Sporting CP in the matches since the international break. Arteta says he is pleased to have the Dutchman back at top gear, having missed three games in October due to a muscle setback.

“For sure. At that level as well. We know what he can produce,” Arteta said when asked about his delight in Timber’s availability. “He’s a player with exceptional qualities and a lot of leadership and the intention and purpose that he plays with.”

Arteta remained traditionally coy on other team news. Asked whether there were any fitness updates, he replied: “Not a lot because we have another training session. We have to see how the boys are. A few weren’t able to train.”

On Gabriel Magalhaes, who suffered a knock against Sporting, Arteta simply stated: “Wait and see.” Takehiro Tomiyasu also remains a doubt.