Arsenal handed injury blow ahead of Ipswich Town game
September 15, 2026 00:46
Arsenal reported a training absence for right-back Ben White ahead of their Carabao Cup third-round trip to Ipswich Town, with the club due to play at Portman Road the day after this report. White left the Sunderland game at half‑time last weekend with a groin problem.
Jurrien Timber, who took over at right-back when White was withdrawn, has only just returned from injury and may be managed cautiously after his first appearance since May. The club’s academy graduate Marli Salmon is mentioned as a possible alternative at right-back.
KEY CONTEXT
- Arsenal begin this period on a six‑match winning streak and are aiming to keep that run going in the cup tie.
- White’s groin trouble forced his substitution against Sunderland, and he missed the following training session reported here.
- Timber’s involvement against Sunderland represented his first showing of any kind since May, which is why his minutes may be restricted.
- The upcoming fixture is a Carabao Cup third‑round away game at Portman Road.
WHY IT MATTERS
- The right‑back position is suddenly uncertain for a match that follows a strong run of results; personnel choices there could affect Arsenal’s lineup and rotation for the cup game.
- Managing Timber’s workload after a long absence is a selection consideration: starting him risks overuse, while leaving him out would require a less experienced option.
- If White is unavailable, giving game time to a club graduate like Marli Salmon would be a notable opportunity for a younger player in a knockout fixture.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Confirmation of Ben White’s availability in the official team announcement and whether he is included in the matchday squad.
- Whether Jurrien Timber starts the cup tie or is held back as part of a cautious approach following his recent comeback.
- If both are unavailable or rested, whether Marli Salmon is deployed at right‑back for the trip to Ipswich.
KEY FACTS
- Article date: September 14, 2026.
- Arsenal are preparing for a Carabao Cup third‑round match at Ipswich Town.
- Ben White missed training after suffering a groin issue and being substituted at half‑time vs Sunderland.
- Jurrien Timber recently returned from injury and played at right‑back after White was withdrawn; it was his first appearance of any form since May.
- Marli Salmon, a club graduate, is a possible right‑back option.