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‘It would be tragic’: Sky pundit says it’ll be so upsetting if 22-year-old isn’t playing for Arsenal next season
Eddie Nketiah came up trumps for Arsenal last night, netting twice for Mikel Arteta’s side in their 4-2 win at Chelsea.
Alexandre Lacazette was only fit for a stoppage time cameo appearance and that handed Nketiah a big opportunity on a huge night for the 22-year-old.
Speaking on the day after the game, former Gunners striker John Hartson said it would be a shame if the striker left the club in the summer.
When asked if Arteta be kicking himself if Nketiah does leave, Hartson replied: “Yes of course because it’s another young Arsenal player who will be allowed to leave and particularly on a free. How on earth they’ve got into this situation…
“Arteta has been honest, blaming himself for allowing his contract to run down and it’s a big, big error again. Maybe in the last year or so he’s not found the form he’s finding now. It’s a difficult one because at this moment in time, he’s flying, Nketiah.
“It is very honest of Arteta, he’s holding his hands up. Maybe they did not come to a deal that his reps were satisfied with. It would be tragic if he was allowed to leave Arsenal. You’ve got a natural finisher there. I’m not saying he’s the answer long term but he’s young enough short term to show what he can do.
“He needs some experience, an arm around him to be told what a great centre forward he is. Give him confidence; I think he’ll thrive Nketiah. It would be a major, major loss and a major disappointment to the fans and Arteta if Nketiah were to leave, in particular on a free.”
There is a lack of certainty over Nketiah’s future, with his contract coming to an end at the conclusion of the season.
He has admitted he is considering leaving, because he wants to play more regular football to take his development to the next level.
Nights like last night may convince him to stay, but it may depend on whether Arsenal get into the Champions League next season or not.