Clinton Morrison believes Gabriel Jesus gives Arsenal a ‘big chance’ to lift the Premier League title. He also feels the forward’s defensive support will be key for Mikel Arteta.
The 26-year-old impressed Morrison with his efforts at either end of the pitch at Liverpool last Sunday. Jesus scored once as Arsenal drew 2-2 at Anfield after edging away from Virgil van Dijk to head home. The centre-back was completely unaware of the forward’s position.
Jesus has scored three goals in his four Premier League appearances since returning from a medial ligament knee injury. The Brazilian required surgery after sustaining the blow at the World Cup last December. He returned in March before scoring twice against Leeds United
Gabriel Jesus is back amongst the goals at a crucial period for Arsenal
Scoring at Liverpool also took Jesus’ tally for the term to eight, plus six assists, since joining Arsenal from Premier League title rivals, Manchester City. Pep Guardiola sold the striker to his former protégé, Arteta, for £45m last July. Jesus signed a £265k-a/w, five-year contract.
Getting the forward fit and seeing Jesus back amongst the goals will have delighted Arteta at a crucial period of Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge. The Gunners lead the table after 30 fixtures. But they still have to play Manchester City on the road during the run-in.
Clinton Morrison claims the Brazilian’s defensive strengths will be key
A Premier League title this season would be Arsenal’s first in 19 years and Jesus’ fifth after lifting four with Manchester City. But Morrison does not believe it is just the striker’s goals that will give the Gunners a real chance of holding onto their advantage over the Citizens.
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“It’s not just what he can offer going forward [but in the] defensive areas,” Morrison said on Sky Sports News (15/04, 12:11). “You know what, ‘see you later, I’m just going to knock it past you and use my pace and then I’m going to be clever again and play a good ball’.
“This [flick over Thiago’s head] was magnificent and that’s near the edge of your box. Most centre-forwards just want to clear that long. But he goes, no I’m going to flick it over the defender and play it to Martinelli. I think he’s been fantastic, Jesus.
“I thought it was a brilliant signing at the start of the season and when he got injured I wondered how Arsenal would deal with it. Nketiah came in. I think having him fit for the run-in gives Arsenal a big chance.”
Arsenal know they must maintain their momentum to beat Manchester City to the Premier League title. The Citizens have won four of the last five titles available with 100, 98, 86 and 93 points. Arsenal have not ended any campaign with more than 80 points since 2007/08.
In other news, Liverpool transfer news: Ben Jacobs makes Edson Alvarez claim amid Chelsea links
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