Jurrien Timber ruled out of World Cup in blow for Netherlands

Arsenal’s Dutch defender Jurrien Timber has been ruled out of the World Cup due to a groin injury.

Timber, who missed the Premier League run-in as Arsenal clinched their first title in 22 years, will leave the Netherlands’ training camp in New York after Monday night’s friendly against Uzbekistan.

A statement from the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) read: “The 24-year-old defender has not recovered sufficiently from a groin injury to take part in the World Cup in a medically responsible manner.

“In consultation with the medical staff, it has therefore been decided that Timber will leave the national team’s pre-camp in New York after the game against Uzbekistan. We’re with you, Jurrien.”

Timber, who signed for Arsenal from Ajax for £34m in the summer of 2023, sustained a groin injury in Arsenal’s home league win against Everton in March.

He returned to contention in time for the Gunners’ penalty shoot-out defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in last month’s Champions League final and came off the bench to replace Cristhian Mosquera in the 66th minute.

Timber will be replaced by Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida, who had been on manager Ronald Koeman’s stand-by list. The Dutch team will head to their base in Kansas City, Missouri, after the match in New York.

The Netherlands begin their campaign against Japan on 14 June and also face Sweden and Tunisia.

PA