Ian Wright: Gabriel Jesus has become ‘undroppable’ for Arsenal ahead of North London Derby
Arsenal legend Ian Wright believes that Gabriel Jesus has now become completely undroppable for Arsenal as they prepare for the North London Derby. Arsenal host fierce rivals Tottenham on Sunday in what is set to be an epic clash between two of the most in-form Premier League teams.
Both Mikel Arteta and Ange Postecoglou have rotated their teams a little during the start of this season and it is still unclear what the XIs will be for the game at the Emirates. Some of the dilemmas facing the Gunners include whether Aaron Ramsdale should return in between the sticks in the place of David Raya, or whether the underwhelming Kai Havertz should be dropped again in favour of Fabio Vieira.
Another decision to be made is who to start up top, as while Gabriel Jesus is the main No.9, Arteta has rotated between the Brazilian, Eddie Nketiah, Leandro Trossard and Havertz. Though this has usually been influenced by injury issues, the manager could drop Jesus should he feel that one of the other forwards gives him something different tactically, but Arsenal legend Wright says the ex-City star is the only man for the job.
Wright on Jesus: ‘He Must Play’
‘If I’m in Eddie’s shoes, I make sure that when I’m on there, whatever half chance I get I take it and I’m ruthless with it,’ the former striker said on the Wrighty’s House podcast.
‘Because if this guy [Jesus] is fit, he must play. He brings it to another place. I’m not saying this as a knock to Eddie, but he has to do something like that so people aren’t so worried when Jesus isn’t around Jesus is an entity on his own with the way he’s playing. His work rate, his finishing, everything he does: that is his main strength.’
Jesus’ Impressive Record
Jesus has started just once this season but still managed to score twice in four appearances, averaging a goal every 54 minutes, while Nketiah has two goals in six games with a strike every 174 minutes.
What Does This Mean for Arsenal?
It looks like Jesus is set to start against Spurs, and if he can continue his impressive form then Arsenal could be in for a good result. The Gunners have been in good form so far this season and will be looking to take advantage of their rivals’ recent struggles. With Jesus leading the line, Arsenal have a great chance of getting all three points.
For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.