Eddie Nketiah has vowed to step into the breach again as Gabriel Jesus begins his recovery from secondary knee surgery. Jesus originally picked up the injury during the World Cup in Qatar in December and was ruled out for three months last season.
He had been edging his way back towards full fitness during pre-season but felt discomfort during the US tour. An investigation by surgeons suggested the joint needed cleaning immediately rather than risking more serious damage later in the season.
It is a massive blow for Arsenal as they look to go one level further than the title challenge they mounted last season. But having scored six goals in the first six games after the World Cup while Jesus began his initial recovery, Nketiah says he is ready to fill the goal void the former Manchester City star’s absence could create.
Obviously, we want him back as soon as possible,” Nketiah said. “We need him. He is a big player for us. “So whatever the manager does, we are all here to contribute and push ourselves to be out there to help the team. Whatever role I need to play, I'm ready to contribute. “Obviously, I believe in my abilities and know I can make a difference.
“The manager has got a tough decision, and whenever he calls me, he knows I can deliver and help the team. It's just about us all collectively playing our part to achieve our goals. ”Once Jesus was fully fit, Nketiah was consigned to the bench again, and the goals dried up.
Eddie Nketsia
Although he scored in a friendly against Monaco on Wednesday, it has now been 14 competitive matches and 571 minutes since he last found the back of the net. But the 24-year-old does not intend to be seen as Jesus' understudy.
“I don't think I'm here to fill in for anyone,” he said. “I'm here to play and contribute to the team.
"I enjoyed it last season and improved myself and tested myself. I participated in some really big games, helped, and contributed.
So that's what it's about—obviously, playing at the highest level and competing for trophies—and that's what I would like to do. That's what I want to contribute to. “I pride myself on always being ready, and whatever role the manager needs me to fill, I will always make sure I do my finest so I can help the team—that's what it's all about.”
An early test will come on Sunday, when Arsenal play Manchester City at Wembley in the Community Shield. “We want to do well, come out there, and win the trophy,” Nketiah said. “That's what it's about. “Hopefully the Monaco game can put us in good stead and ensure we compete.”
