Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed Eddie Nketiah to replace Gabriel Jesus in the starting lineup over the coming few months.

Jesus sustained a knee injury while Brazil was competing in the World Cup; he is anticipated to miss a few months, however, a rehabilitation timetable has not been specified.

Nketiah is the only natural centre-forward option left for the Gunners, and while Arteta has previously hinted that Gabriel Martinelli might fill in at the top, he has full faith in Nketiah to do the job.

“We have more faith in Eddie every single day,” Arteta said.

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“We see every day what he brings to the team, what he is as a human being and the way he is developing as a player. We got a great response last year when we needed him and he did really well for the team.

“He is ready. That is why he signed his contract. He is a key player in our squad and he is going to have chances to play.”

Nketiah put in a series of impressive performances at the end of last season when replacing the outgoing Alexandre Lacazette in the starting lineup. Jesus’ summer arrival has seen his appearances limited this term, however.

Folarin Balogun has been on loan at Reims for 15 games, scoring eight goals in that time for the Ligue 1 team. Arsenal is reportedly considering calling Balogun back.

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