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Ally McCoist says Mikel Arteta still does not fully trust ‘outstanding’ Arsenal player
Ally McCoist thinks Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta does not fully trust Eddie Nketiah to lead the line for the Gunners.
First choice striker Gabriel Jesus has picked up an injury at the World Cup with Brazil and a statement on the read:
“Gabriel Jesus has successfully undergone surgery to his right knee after suffering an injury during the Brazil v Cameroon World Cup group stage match on Friday.
“Gabby will now begin his rehabilitation programme. Everyone at the club is supporting Gabby and will be working hard to get him back on the pitch as soon as possible.”
McCoist on Nketiah
McCoist was a top striker himself during his playing days and told he is not sure Nketiah can step into the breach, and crucially, neither is Arteta.
He said on the topic of Jesus’ injury: “Massive for Arsenal, let’s be honest. Everything’s been going really well and one of the reasons for that has been the form of the centre-forward.
“He’s been brilliant since joining from Manchester City. Is Nketiah ready for it? I’m not so sure. Do they go and get a replacement in January? That’s the question. We’ll find out how serious they are.
“He started off scoring a few goals but his general play and his leading the line was perfect for Arsenal. It was a real blow. They don’t have anything like the squad of Manchester City.
“Arteta will want to bring someone in. The fact they did that when Nketiah’s contract was up, they still wanted a signing tells you that Arteta doesn’t feel Nketiah is right to lead the line on a consistent basis for Arsenal.”
The ‘outstanding‘ Nketiah signed a new contract over the summer, just days before his old deal would have expired, making him a free agent.
Central to that would have been the opportunity to play more often, but he is still waiting for a Premier League start this season.
He has had to be content with Europa League starts so far, but now the Englishman has the opportunity to show what he can do and spearhead Arsenal’s attack.
What a chance that is for the academy graduate, who has had his fair share of critics but also has had to wait to be able to show what he can do at the highest level on a consistent basis.