Eddie Nketiah says he is ready to lead Arsenal's attack after Gabriel Jesus' injury

Eddie Nketiah says he is ready to lead Arsenal's attack - Photo Credit || Imago

Eddie Nketiah says he is ready to lead Arsenal's attack after Gabriel Jesus' injury

Stephen Oladehinde 17:47 - 03.08.2023

Eddie Nketiah has insisted that he is eager to lead Arsenal’s frontline after the recent knee injury to Gabriel Jesus.

Jesus underwent a knee procedure, according to his manager Mikel Arteta, because of pain from a prior surgery in the same region that he had the previous injury at the World Cup.

The Injury saw him miss a large chunk of last season's title challenge with Nketiah coming in to fill in for him.

The Brazilian striker was absent from the team for Wednesday night's Emirates Cup match between Arsenal and Monaco, which the Gunners won on penalties following a 1-1 draw.

However, Nketiah has said he is ready to lead the attack once more for the Gunners and fill in for injured Jesus.

Nketiah in action for Arsenal - Photo Credit | Imago
Nketiah in action for Arsenal - Photo Credit | Imago

Nketiah says he is ready to step up

The all-time leading scorer for England Under-21 believes he can replicate the impact he made last season after taking over for Jesus.

During an interview as reported by Daily Mail, Nketiah said, “Yeah (I did answer doubts last season) but I don't think I'm here to fill in for anyone. 

“I'm here to play and contribute to the team obviously, I believe in my abilities and I know I can contribute.

“I just really enjoyed it (last season) and was able to improve myself. I played some really big games and I was able to help and contribute.

“I pride myself on always being ready and whatever role the manager needs me to fill, I will always make sure I do my best so I can help the team — that's what it's all about.

“The manager has got a tough decision and whenever he calls me, he knows I can deliver and I can help the team.”

Nketiah also spoke on Arsenal losing Jesus to another knee injury and he said, “We want him back as soon as possible. We need him, he is a big player for us.

“So whatever the manager does, we are all here to contribute and push to be out there to help the team.”

Nketiah is expected to lead Arsenal's attack against Manchester City in the community shield and also against Nottingham Forest in the opening game of the Premier League.