Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard played a key role in helping Gabriel Jesus remain focused on converting his penalty to give the hosts the lead at half-time. The Gunners are currently 2-0 up against Leeds at the Emirates Stadium following Jesus' penalty kick after he was fouled by Luke Ayling with Ben White adding a second just minutes into the second half.
Mikel Arteta made a surprise decision to name Bukayo Saka amongst the substitutes for today's crucial fixture. The Gunners boss revealed that Saka had been feeling unwell prior to the match and opted to start Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard in attack instead.
Thomas Partey was passed fit after taking part in training this week following some injury problems during the international break. William Saliba is still absent with a back injury as Rob Holding starts his second consecutive match alongside Gabriel Magalhaes in defence as Arsenal look to reclaim their eight-point lead at the top of the table.
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Manchester City closed the gap down to five points with a huge 4-1 win against Liverpool in the early kick-off. Jack Grealish fired a warning to the Gunners following City's win with Pep Guardiola's side still having a game in hand to play later this season.
Arsenal had struggled to create chances in the first half against Leeds with the visitors enjoying some strong spells in the opening 45 minutes. Jesus' penalty kick helped ease worries around the ground as Arsenal head into the second half with a 1-0 lead.
Luke Ayling fouled the Brazilian striker inside the penalty box after he slid in and made contact with Jesus' knee, resulting in a spot kick. Leeds players crowded the penalty spot thinking Odegaard was about to step up and take the penalty in Saka's absence from the team.
The Norwegian playmaker instead was only holding on to the ball to protect Jesus from any mind games, allowing the striker to prepare for the penalty kick in his own time before converting into the back of the net. The Brazilian celebrated by pointing to Odegaard and hugging his captain after giving the Gunners a crucial lead.
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