Gabriel Jesus has vowed to get himself into more scoring positions for Arsenal as the Gunners look to keep the pressure on Liverpool.
Mikel Arteta’s side moved to within three points of the Reds at the top of the Premier League table with a comprehensive 5-1 win over Crystal Palace. Arne Slot’s side will have the chance to open that gap back up to six points against Tottenham tomorrow, while they also have a game in hand after the postponement of the Merseyside derby earlier this month.
Nevertheless, it was a good night for Liverpool’s rivals, and an even better week for Jesus in particular. The Brazilian followed up his hat-trick against the same opponents in the Carabao Cup in midweek with two more goals at Selhurst Park, and he could have easily had more.
His hot streak comes at just the right time for Arsenal, with Jesus’ abilities in front of goal having been questioned this season - his last league goal before now had come all the way back in January.
Reflecting on his side’s win, Jesus told Sky Sports: “Obviously the first goal was very important early. The way we started, the full team was really ready to play well and fight.
“They have a strong team and quality players and we know it is always difficult to come here. We did the job and I am very happy with the goals as a number nine, I know the pressure is always on to score. I am happy but the win, the three points, was massive today.
“I’m the type of guy that wants to work hard. I know my qualities. I know I can score. In my mind I know I can score, I just have to put myself in a good position to finish the action like today. I put two in the net and missed one I will be dreaming of.
Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and Arsenal FC at Selhurst Park
Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace FC and Arsenal FC at Selhurst Park (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
“When I play with a smile on my face everything is different so I am trying to keep my mind strong and just help the team. I understand I have to be more in the box to finish the action.
Jesus added: "It is great to be back in the team playing more. I am experienced enough and know when a player is playing constantly it is different. I am happy to get more chances but it is up to me to put myself in the right places to score. It is Arsenal, it is a huge club and I know the pressure for the number nine to score is there."
Liverpool.com says: It was slightly ominous seeing Arsenal in free-scoring form at Palace, although one game is not enough evidence to suggest they're goalscoring problems have been solved - especially when you take into account Bukayo Saka was forced off injured.
We'll have to wait and see how Jesus and co perform against other teams, but Liverpool just needs to focus on itself. If it can beat Tottenham tomorrow, that gap will be looking huge again for Arsenal.