Journalist Charles Watts has now shared his verdict on whether or not Gabriel Jesus will be involved for Arsenal against Sheffield United.
Gabriel Jesus is edging closer to a return for Arsenal.
The Brazilian striker has not featured for the north London club since their 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest. Since then, the Gunners have been in scintillating form in the Premier League, recording a 3-1 win against Liverpool, before beating West Ham United 6-0 and Burnley 5-0. Most recently, they triumphed 4-1 over Newcastle United.
In Jesus’ absence, Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz have shared striking duties, and both have caught the eye. When they have been on the pitch together, Trossard and Havertz have also struck up an extremely effective partnership, as their distinct attributes seem to fit together seamlessly.
For his part, Jesus has endured a difficult campaign in front of goal. In 17 top flight appearances so far, he has scored just four times. There has been lots of talk of Mikel Arteta being on the hunt for a new striker, and plenty of potential replacements for Jesus have been linked with Arsenal.
However, Jesus has made a commitment to becoming a more prolific presence up top for the Gunners, and there is no denying that he adds quality to the team in many ways that extend beyond putting the ball into the back of the net. For instance, the 26-year-old is an excellent presser, and does a lot of good work to help Arsenal win the ball back high up the pitch.
Gabriel Jesus tipped for game time against Sheffield United
A fully fit and in-form Jesus would be a huge boost to Arsenal in what remains of this season. However, he is not quite at that stage in his recovery from injury yet, as evidenced by the fact that he has been left out of the Brazil international team squad for their upcoming fixtures.
Despite this, Charles Watts still expects to see Jesus back in action for Arsenal very soon. Speaking on his Inside Arsenal YouTube channel, the reporter said, “Brazil have announced their squad for the upcoming international break. Gabriel Martinelli is in it, Gabriel Magalhaes is in it, but no Gabriel Jesus. He has been left out…Which I think is a good thing for Arsenal.”
“Obviously, he’s not played yet since his injury. I’m sure he probably will tomorrow night [against Sheffield United], whether that’ll be form the start or from the substitutes bench, we will have to wait and see.”
It would be a surprise to see the former Manchester City man handed a start at Bramall Lane, but he was amongst the substitutes when Arsenal took on Newcastle last time out. Whilst he did not make it onto the pitch on that occasion, Arteta is likely planning to afford him some valuable minutes against Sheffield United on Monday evening.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
