‘Amazing’: Darren Bent amazed by ‘brilliant’ Arsenal youngster; says Arteta deserves big credit
Darren Bent has told talkSPORT that Arsenal youngster Eddie Nketiah has proved that he is ready to lead the line for Arsenal, and praised Mikel Arteta for putting his faith in the 23-year-old.
It is easy to forget that Nketiah looked unlikely to make the grade at the Emirates this time 12 months ago. He had previously been unable to really kick on after emerging onto the scene.
However, he went some way to silencing his doubters in the second-half of last season. He came in as Alexandre Lacazette’s lack of goals became too much of an issue. And he shone when the chance came.
Brnt impressed by Eddie Nketiah
The signing of Gabriel Jesus appeared to be a game-changer for Mikel Arteta’s men in the summer. And he was absolutely outstanding for the Gunners in the opening months of the season – even if his goals return was underwhelming.
Jesus sustained a serious injury at the World Cup. And with that, all Arsenal fans’ worst fears appeared to be realised. However, Nketiah has stepped up in a big way.
The Englishman has been superb since the domestic season’s resumption, scoring against both West Ham and Brighton. Meanwhile, he bagged a brace in the FA Cup win over Oxford United on Monday.
Bent suggested that Nketiah has now shown that he is up to the standard required after a superb 12 months for the Gunners.
“We saw glimpses last season. if you can remember the backend of last season, the last seven games, he scored five goals. He had the two against Chelsea, where he was brilliant, two against Leeds and one against Everton. The performance against Chelsea was the one I went: ‘oh wow. Okay maybe he is ready’,” he told talkSPORT.
“And again he’s been given opportunities this season. He’s scored a fair few goals in this little run. I think he’s got four in his last five.
“Fair play to Arteta as well by the way, because he’s gone: ‘you know what, you’re my number nine’.”
Gabriel Jesus facing battle to regain place
Nketiah’s record is even better than Bent suggests, with five in five. And that should give him a huge boost in confidence ahead of some massive fixtures.
He ticks different boxes to Jesus. He is more of a traditional striker, completely coming to life when a chance presents itself. But Arsenal are still doing well with him in the side.
It is extremely encouraging for the future for both Arsenal and Nketiah. Before his run, it seemed like it was going to be a huge task for the youngster to fill Jesus’ void.
But if he carries this form on, there are no guarantees that Jesus will immediately regain his place in the team when fit again.
