BBC pundit Alan Shearer believes Gabriel Jesus is the player who needs to “step up” and “replace” Bukayo Saka’s goals and assists during the Arsenal winger’s absence.
After being pictured on crutches after the 5-1 win over Crystal Palace at the weekend, Saka could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines and Shearer says Jesus has the ability to fill the void.
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“It will be a big loss for Arsenal. [They will miss] not only Saka’s goals but his assists which is why I think it is important for Jesus to step up and try to replace him.
“He was having such a tough time in front of goal, but I think Mikel Arteta deserves a lot of credit because of what happened in midweek, he gets his goals and you can see the belief he would’ve had in training. He had to start him and it was a wonderful performance and it’s no surprise he was back in the goals.
“His all-around play I thought was very, very good today also. He was bringing players into the game with little touches, going in behind. You can see he’s got a pace about him again and he feels as if he belongs back in the team.”
Jesus has found form at the right time
The Brazilian international has struggled to find the back of the net on a regular basis since his move from Manchester City in 2022.
Jesus’s confidence was rock bottom prior to his hat-trick in the Carabao Cup last week, but it looks like he is poised for a hot streak in front of goal based on his performance at Selhurst Park on Saturday evening.
With Saka absent, Shearer is right to say that someone needs to take up the mantle and Jesus could be the one to fire the Gunners to victory in games over the festive period.
Arsenal have some tough fixtures coming up
While Mikel Arteta’s men will be expected to beat Ipswich Town at home on Friday, they then have two tricky away trips to Brentford and Brighton.
Before hosting Manchester United in the FA Cup next month, they will also play the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle at the Emirates.
Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here