Recent goal glut ‘has to be’ turning point for Gabriel Jesus, says Mikel Arteta
Share:
Mikel Arteta has challenged Gabriel Jesus to continue his hot streak and power Arsenal to glory after hailing his brace against Crystal Palace as a watershed moment in the striker’s career. Jesus’s double in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory at Selhurst Park came just three days after his hat-trick, also against the Eagles, propelled his side into the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup.
The 27-year-old’s time in north London appeared in doubt following a barren run in front of goal. Indeed, his opening strike at Selhurst Park on Saturday was his first in the Premier League in 326 days. But, with five goals in two fixtures, Arteta believes Jesus’ dark days are now behind him.
And, when asked if he was hopeful this could mark a turning point for Jesus, Arteta replied: “It has to be. We have to push him, let him go and get behind him. “He has had some difficult moments and when you are a striker that’s not easy because you get a lot of the spotlight.
“But credit to him, because his work ethic, and the way he came back in the summer, he was a completely different player. And now he is being rewarded.”. He has had some difficult moments and when you are a striker that’s not easy because you get a lot of the spotlight.
Following lacklustre consecutive league draws against Fulham and Everton, Arsenal fans were calling on the club’s hierarchy to bankroll a move for a new number nine when the transfer window opens next month. But, after falling out of favour, Jesus’ new-found confidence in front of goal, for now at least, dilutes that narrative.
