Eddie Nketiah has admitted he backs himself to continue as Arsenal's starting XI striker once Gabriel Jesus returns from a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a knee injury. The 23-year-old has filled the shoes of the Gunners' marquee summer signing, scoring four goals in as many appearances since the resumption of the season following the conclusion of the World Cup.
From an outside perspective there was a significant amount of concern over whether Nketiah could fill the shoes of Jesus, internally though he had the support of team-mate Granit Xhaka and the backing of Arteta and goals against West Ham, Brighton and Oxford have more than proven his case. While the Hale End grad may not be able to offer the link up play that Jesus can, he has been able to thrive where the summer signing from Manchester City hasn't for some time.
Prior to his injury at the World Cup, the 25-year-old had gone ten games without scoring and his replacement at the tip of the attack has already surpassed his goal tally for the season. From 1,111 minutes of action, Nketiah has seven goals, while Jesus has netted five goals from 1,453 minutes.
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With Martin Odegaard as the perfect creator for Arsenal, Nketiah may be able to use his goal-scoring nous to get the edge over Jesus, and the 23-year-old certainly backs himself to do exactly that.
Speaking to Viaplay when asked if he can become Arsenal's number one striking option, he said: “Of course. I just signed a new contract, and I wouldn’t have if I didn’t believe I could play, and I am sure the coaching staff believe in me.
"I try to focus on helping the team and improving as a player. I am only 23, I have still got a lot of years to grow and improve. For myself, I just go about it game by game. I know what I can do, I know what I can bring to the team, and it’s just about working hard and giving my all to be able to show that and contribute.”
Nketiah also sent out his best wishes to his team-mate who is still continuing his rehabilitation from knee surgery. "I wish [Jesus] a speedy recovery. We want him back and we need him back for the team."
With Mikel Arteta revealing the latest updates on Jesus' injury, Nketiah looks set to keep hold of his starting place for the next few weeks at the very least. Up next for the Gunners is a short trip across north London to neighbours Tottenham and Nketiah, who developed through the ranks at London Colney, knows exactly what the fixture means to those associated with the club.
“I have always been an Arsenal supporter and I joined the club at the age of 14," he said. "I understand the importance of the derby. I know what it means to the fans and we are going to give everything to go there and try and get the three points.”
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