The Arsenal defender started for the first time since March in the 3-0 defeat by Brighton last weekend, having spent much of the year dealing with the injury. He underwent surgery during the summer before beginning his latest comeback.
Timber joined the Netherlands squad for the current Nations League window, but new head coach Xavi Hernández has opted for a cautious approach.
The 25-year-old was left out of the squad for Thursday's meeting with Germany and instead followed an individual training programme during much of the week. He returned to full training on Wednesday, however, giving Xavi a clearer indication of his fitness.
The decision reflects the length of Timber's recent absence. The Arsenal defender told Dutch media that he had been injured for a total of 25 weeks around the World Cup.
“You know, I was injured for a total of 25 weeks before and after the World Cup.”
“To be honest, I only felt good during that week of the Champions League final. It was a miracle.”
Timber's return to the Netherlands squad is significant after he missed the summer World Cup because of injury. His latest comeback has therefore been managed carefully by both Arsenal and the national team.
The defender's club form had also been interrupted by the long-term problem. He finally returned to Arsenal's starting XI against Brighton on September 19, although the Gunners suffered a 3-0 defeat.
His recovery is being watched particularly closely because Timber has become an important part of Arsenal's defensive options since joining from Ajax.
The Netherlands are beginning a new era under Xavi, who selected Timber in his first squad despite the defender's limited recent playing time. The new manager has already shown that he is prepared to manage his players' workload rather than immediately asking returning internationals to play every available minute.
Timber's situation is therefore one of rehabilitation rather than selection. He has already demonstrated that he can return to full training, but the Netherlands are avoiding unnecessary pressure after months of interrupted preparation.
The defender will now continue to build his match fitness with Arsenal, where his ability to remain available will be just as important as his immediate involvement for the Netherlands.
For a player who spent much of the past six months managing the effects of a persistent groin problem, the priority is finally establishing a sustained run of football.