Arsenal star striker Gabriel Jesus has thanked the supporters for backing him as he put an end to a six-month goal drought against Leeds United on Saturday. The 4-1 victory saw the Brazilian score a brace as he was joined by Ben White and Granit Xhaka on the scoresheet, cancelling out Rasmus Kristensen's effort for the Yorkshire outfit.
The clash was Jesus' first in the starting line-up since his serious injury last year, where he sustained damage to his knee at the World Cup that required surgery. The return was accompanied by a double that was praised by manager Mikel Arteta in his post-match press conference.
"Delighted for him [Jesus]. They all were. We were all clapping for him. He’s been working so hard for the last for or five months with a lot of support from the team and the staff. Today he deserved the chance to start. He grabbed the opportunity with a lot of conviction and with two goals."
READ MORE: Arsenal on track to smash 'Invincibles' record as Mikel Arteta continues Premier League title run
The striker's return to action gives the Gunners a huge boost in the title race as more options are added to the front line. Jesus' goals will bring a huge confidence back too, though his valuable contribution outside of putting the ball in the back of the net has been recognised by fans throughout a drought he endured.
Speaking after the victory, Jesus told the Arsenal website that he was grateful for the support, saying: "It was so good playing again, starting again and feeling the atmosphere of the crowd. The supporters come all together, and the way they support me is massive.
“I just want to say thank you to them for supporting me until the end. It’s not easy when you’re seeing your striker not scoring goals but they always support me.”
READ NEXT:
Who Gabriel Jesus hugged at full time as Trossard makes Arteta's wildest Arsenal dream come true
William Saliba, Ben White: Arsenal injury news and return dates ahead of Liverpool clash
Arsenal's next five Premier League fixtures compared to Man City in title race
What Arsenal players and Mikel Arteta did to Gabriel Jesus after Man City response vs Leeds
