During a press conference ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming match against Leicester, Mikel Arteta provided an update on Gabriel Jesus’ progress as he works to return to full fitness.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the progress of Gabriel Jesus, as the striker continues to work towards a full recovery. The Gunners’ number nine has been sidelined since the World Cup, but his absence has been admirably filled by Eddie Nketiah. Ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming clash with Leicester, Arteta confirmed that Jesus is pushing hard to return and is making steady progress.
In a press conference, Arteta stated that the Brazilian is doing more and more on the training pitch without any negative reactions, which is encouraging news. He also revealed that while they want Jesus back as quickly as possible, they will adhere to the recovery timeframe prescribed by medical experts.
“He’s progressing really well.
“He’s doing more and more on the field and he’s not reacting [negatively], so that’s really positive.
“We want to have him as quickly as possible but also respect the timeframe we got from the doctor and the specialists.
“He’s really pushing the boundaries right now.” The Spainish boss said.
Despite initial fears that Arsenal’s title challenge would suffer in the absence of Jesus, Nketiah has stepped up to the challenge with aplomb. Although the goals have dried up of late, the Englishman has still been getting into promising positions and Arteta expects him to convert one soon.
With momentum on their side after a convincing 4-2 win over Aston Villa last weekend, Arsenal will be hoping to continue their impressive run of form as they prepare to take on a formidable Leicester side.
While Jesus’ absence has been felt, Arteta can take comfort in the knowledge that he has a capable deputy in Nketiah, who has proved himself to be a more than capable replacement.