Jurrien Timber reveals true reason behind Arsenal slip-up - 'We can't play'

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Jurrien Timber has pointed to Arsenal ’s growing injury list as the primary reason behind their recent stuttering form. The Gunners were seven points clear just over a month ago but a tricky run of form has seen that advantage reduced to just two.

They have won just two out of their last five league games, having been held by Sunderland and Chelsea . Mikel Arteta ’s side then lost only their second game at the weekend after being downed late on by Aston Villa. And defender Timber reckons Arsenal’s injuries this season have had a huge impact.

Speaking after Saturday’s defeat at Villa Park, he said: "Yes, it is [a disruption]. I think we have a great squad. I think players that come in always do really good, but obviously it's not always easy.

"We can't play every week with the same players and if players go out again, it's tough. But I think it's also part of... it happens within the season.

"I think it happens at every club. With us it's the same and we just have to manage that with and win our games."

Arsenal currently have four stars restricted to the sidelines. Defenders Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba and Cristhian Mosquera are all currently ruled out, while forward Kai Havertz has missed a large chunk of the campaign.

The Gunners have also seen Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus all on the treatment table at various times. Despite that, Timber is not looking for an excuse and believes that the weekend’s late defeat to Villa should give Arsenal fresh motivation as they aim to end their long wait for the Premier League crown.

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"I think in the end you need to use it as a motivation and in the end as a strength, because it happened and we need to accept it and we need to get better," he added.

"At the same time, within the season, I think these moments happen, set-backs, and you just have to step up after that."

Arsenal will take their focus off of their title push this week as they travel to Club Brugge in the Champions League on Wednesday. Arteta’s side then have the perfect chance to get back to winning ways at the weekend as they host rock-bottom Wolves at the Emirates Stadium.

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