Former Ballon d'Or winner Rivaldo has insisted he hopes Gabriel Jesus can remain injury free for the remainder of the season after the Arsenal star scored for the first time since returning from injury.
Jesus, 26, missed 15 games between December and March as a result of undergoing knee surgery. The forward sustained the injury whilst playing for Brazil at the World Cup in their final group stage fixture with Cameroon.
After cameos off the bench against Fulham and Crystal Palace before the international break, Jesus was handed his first Premier League start since November in the Gunners’ 4-1 win over Leeds.
READ MORE: Gabriel Jesus reveals why he was disappointed with Mikel Arteta decision after Arsenal vs Leeds
The Brazilian marked his return to Mikel Arteta's side with two goals either side of half-time. He converted a spot-kick after being brought down by Luke Ayling before pouncing on Leandro Trossard's smart cross from close range.
Arsenal have nine games remaining to win their first Premier League title in 19 years and Jesus' return only bolsters their chances of doing so. And Rivaldo has revealed the joy he had watching his compatriot back in action over the weekend.
"I really enjoy watching Gabriel Jesus play and it was with great joy that I watched his superb performance in Arsenal's win over Leeds at the weekend," the former Barcelona star told Betfair.
"He scored twice and caused a lot of problems for the Leeds defence showing that he is already close to his best form. This is great news for Arsenal and the Brazilian national team.
"He got injured in the World Cup but now he seems to be ready to come back and who knows, maybe he will play at a third World Cup in his career. In the meantime, he can help Arsenal in their bid to win the Premier League title this season.
"He has plenty of quality and talent. We just have to hope that his injury problems do not reappear. If he stays fit, he will be an option for the Brazilian team again."
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