Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says Gabriel Jesus will be assessed following Sunday’s Premier League match against Liverpool.
The Brazilian striker started a thrilling 3-2 victory at the Emirates that saw the in-form Gunners regain top spot from Manchester City after an eighth win in nine matches so far this term, but suffered a blow to the head during the contest.
Jesus was caught by a flailing elbow from Liverpool defender Kostas Tsimikas while trying to avoid stepping on Martin Odegaard during the second half, with the medical staff immediately called for by concerned players.
Thankfully the 25-year-old got back on his feet after receiving treatment on the pitch and was deemed fine to quickly return, playing on until appearing to receive another knock and being replaced by deputy Eddie Nketiah in stoppage time.
Asked for an update on Jesus after the game, Arteta said he seemed fine but would be subject to further assessment this week.
“I don’t know, I haven’t been with the doctor yet but I’m sure they’re checking him,” he told reporters. “He seemed OK after the game. I don’t actually know what happened, but we will obviously assess how he is.”
Jesus should get another rest in favour of Nketiah on Thursday, when Arteta is sure to make more changes for Arsenal’s return fixture against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.
The Spaniard would loathe to be without his star striker, who has played a crucial role in transforming the club’s fortunes since a £45million summer transfer from Manchester City, scoring five goals across all competitions so far.
Arsenal’s next Premier League assignment comes away at Leeds next Sunday, before a double-header against PSV Eindhoven in October is sandwiched between domestic meetings with Southampton and Nottingham Forest.
Arsenal remain without long-term absentees Emile Smith Rowe (groin) and Mohamed Elneny (knee), while Oleksandr Zinchenko is also sidelined with a muscle injury.
