- Jurrien Timber calls on Arsenal to ‘change the narrative’ ahead of Tuesday clash
- Mikel Arteta’s side have face criticism for their struggles in the attacking line
- LISTEN NOW: It’s All Kicking Off! Is it harsh on Anthony Gordon that he misses the Carabao Cup final?
Jurrien Timber has called on his Arsenal side to ‘change the narrative’ around their weakened frontline with a convincing victory against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday.
The Gunners have faced criticism after a real struggle to score goals following injuries to Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
The north London club failed to score in their last two matches and have played defensive midfielder Mikel Merino up front because of a lack of options.
They are coming up against a Dutch team who have scored an impressive 73 goals in 24 Eredivisie matches — that’s 22 more goals than Arsenal have struck in their 27 Premier League matches.
‘I think the motivation is there,’ said Timber.
‘Tomorrow is a beautiful game and chance to change the narrative and win.’
Jurrien Timber has issued a three-word rallying cry to his Arsenal team-mates ahead of their Champions League clash on Tuesday
The Gunners will face the reigning Eredivisie champions in the first leg of the round of 16 stage
Mikel Arteta’s side have been often criticised for their struggles to score goals amid several attacking players’ long-term injuries
He added: ‘(It’s) about winning the game. We have to score tomorrow, we have to win games.
‘In the Champions League you only have two games, so you don’t get second chances and that’ll be the case for tomorrow.’
Timber was full of praise for teenager Ethan Nwaneri, who has become a first-team regular following a spate of injuries to the frontline.
The 17-year-old was on the bench when Arsenal travelled to Eindhoven for a dead-rubber Champions League group game against PSV last season which ended 1-1 in December.
‘I think It’s amazing to see, amazing to be a part of,’ said Timber.
‘I can’t wait (to see) what the future holds for him. Hopefully tomorrow he can show a little bit of magic as well.’
