Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Football London
Football London
Sport
Luke Thrower

Arsenal striker's finishing questioned as Mikel Arteta faces potential Gabriel Jesus injury fear

Former star Kevin Campbell has questioned Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah over his finishing ability following his extended contract at the club. The academy graduate impressed towards the back end of last season, earning a new deal to help solve the centre-forward issue in the squad.

However, since the signing of Gabriel Jesus in the summer, there has been a struggle for the 22-year-old to break into the first team again. So far, he has had cameo appearances from the substitutes bench, though he managed to score the winner against FC Zurich in the Europa League group stages.

Speaking to Highbury Squad, Campbell has thrown doubt over his ability, saying: "Eddie's a good finisher but yet to prove it year in and year out at the top level. I've said it myself previously, Eddie's not the answer. I'd love him to prove me wrong. I think he's improved his all-round game, but finishing-wise, I don't know if he's the answer."

READ MORE: Pep Guardiola 'called' Mikel Arteta for tactical advice ahead of Arsenal and Man City title clash

It comes amid fears from Paul Merson surrounding a potential injury for Jesus in the coming months, given his importance to the team. The Brazilian has made an ideal start to life in north London, not only scoring goals but providing plenty off the ball when he can too.

If the Gunners are to get in the top four this season, his fitness could be a key reason for it. Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson explained the injury fears: "If Gabriel Jesus gets injured, they have massive problems.

"Eddie Nketiah is a good lad, but playing and scoring every week is a different ball game. I don't want to say too much, but Arsenal are in a good position to secure a top-four finish, and I hope they can make it count this time."

It remains to be seen just how much Nketiah could influence the season for Arsenal, however, he will be hoping to prove plenty of people wrong when his time comes.

READ NEXT:

Every word Mikel Arteta said on Ben White, Zinchenko's fitness and Smith Rowe's injury

Emile Smith Rowe offered assurances at Arsenal as Mikel Arteta reacts to latest injury setback

Mikel Arteta's growing Arsenal dilemma explains Edu's £7m bargain transfer fight with Man City

Edu's £25m gamble increases big potential Arsenal return amid William Saliba repeat success

Mikel Arteta reveals one Arsenal star he is 'frustrated' over amid growing injury concerns

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.