Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed high praise for Eddie Nketiah, hailing the young striker as a “top-level” talent after Edward Nketiah’s hat-trick in Arsenal’s 5-0 triumph over Sheffield United.
The win brought Arteta’s squad within two points of local rivals Tottenham in the Premier League standings.
Despite this victory, doubts persist among many regarding whether Arsenal possesses the natural goal scorer required to challenge Manchester City for the title.
Nketiah may find himself in the starting lineup following Gabriel Jesus’s hamstring injury in the recent Champions League win over Sevilla, with Arteta lauding the England under-21 international’s goal-scoring abilities.
According to Arteta, “He is a top-level player. His significant appearances in the Premier League underline the trust and importance we place in him within the team. It’s a fantastic achievement for an academy player to secure a hat-trick in the Premier League. He deserves to relish the moment, and I believe many more successes are on the horizon.”
Last season, Nketiah deputized for Gabriel Jesus during an injury spell but faced challenges in finding the net consistently, a situation Arteta attributes to the striker’s need for consistent playing time and service.
Arteta emphasized, “Nketiah’s potential is immense, both in his talent and his strong mindset. His track record over the past decade is commendable. If he receives the playing time and support, he will undoubtedly score goals for Arsenal.”
Bukayo Saka, another product of Arsenal’s academy, marked a significant milestone by being appointed captain for the first time. Arteta recognized Saka’s extraordinary journey, asserting the player’s rising importance within the team and the club.
Arteta remarked, “Saka’s leadership and impact have evolved significantly. His increasing role necessitates corresponding steps in leadership, and I am confident he is prepared for that responsibility”.
Source: AFP
