Arsenal didn't let the international break derail their momentum as the Gunners returned to Premier League action this weekend with a huge 4-1 win over Leeds United. A Gabriel Jesus brace was followed by Ben White and Granit Xhaka on the scoresheet, rendering Rasmus Kristensen's goal a mere consolation.
Mikel Arteta saw his side restore their lead to eight points clear of title rivals Manchester City, with nine games left for the side to get themselves over the line. They have put themselves in a great position to do that, but the return of Jesus to the starting 11 for the first time since November has come as a timely boost.
"Delighted for him," Arteta said on the striker after the game. "They all were. We were all clapping for him. He’s been working so hard for the last for or five months with a lot of support from the team and the staff. Today he deserved the chance to start. He grabbed the opportunity with a lot of conviction and with two goals."
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With Jesus back in the team and the goals, they will hope his talismanic presence could be enough to get their title bid over the line. Former star Paul Merson has likened the striker's play to that of his Brazilian compatriot Roberto Firmino and the key role he played for Liverpool in recent seasons.
He said on Sky Sports: "I thought he [Jesus] was outstanding, he just brings something different to the team. He comes off players, he knits it all together, he reminds me a bit of Roberto Firmino at Liverpool when he was at his pomp, playing with Mane and Salah.
"Jesus is a bit like that for Arsenal. He knits it all together, he comes short, he can go long. He’s just a proper, proper footballer."
It remains to be seen whether he can have the same impact until the end of the season and guide the team to lifting the trophy in late May, but there will be hopes that he can continue his form from Leeds.
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