Jurrien Timber has been told that his versatility could do his career more harm than good in the long run following his return to fitness at Arsenal.

The Netherlands defender sustained an ACL injury on his Premier League debut last year and was subsequently ruled out for the vast majority of his maiden campaign at The Emirates.

Timber, 23, made his return on the final day of last season and has impressed in Arsenal's early fixtures this term. He started the first four league games at left-back before deputising for Ben White at right-back in the 2-2 draw with title rivals Manchester City.

But while the Gunners have benefitted from Timber's versatility, former Chelsea defender Khalid Boulahrouz has warned the defender against settling for a utility role given the competition for places in Mikel Arteta's defence.

READ MORE: Sky Sports fans can save £216 on their bill, here's three other reasons you'll want to pick it

READ MORE: Mikel Merino left in awe of what he saw in Arsenal training before finally making debut

Speaking to Dutch outlet Ziggo Sport, Boulahrouz said of Timber: “Of course he is coming back from a serious injury. Then you are very humble and happy to be in the starting line-up at such a great club. You enjoy that.

“But is it good for the rest of your career? No. Is it good to be versatile? It can be an option every now and then.

“If he were to play right back, that is closer to his nature, but left back… No, that is not what you were brought in for. You played centrally and you deserved it.”

Join the debate! Where would you like to see Timber play for Arsenal? Let us know here.

While Timber impressed as a centre-back during his time at Ajax, Arsenal boast one of the Premier League's most imperious defensive partnerships in the former of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba.

And the Gunners are also blessed with strength in depth in defence full stop with the likes of Timber, White, Takehiro Tomiyasu and new boy Riccardo Calafiori all competing for a starting berth either side of the duo.

Former Netherlands international Ronald de Boer disagreed with Boulahrouz's verdict and pointed out the club's strength in depth, responding: “They [Arsenal] have the two best central defenders in the world with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

“The English league is a bit different than the Dutch one, right? I think he can be very happy that he plays there, as a left-right back or number six. Because this boy can do a lot.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.