Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus may start against Crystal Palace in the League Cup, his first start in nearly a year after a long injury layoff.
MIKEL Arteta has hinted that Gabriel Jesus could make his first start in nearly a year in Arsenal’s League Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace on Tuesday.
The Premier League leaders host Palace at the Emirates, aiming to end the club’s six-year trophy drought.
Jesus scored a hat-trick in Arsenal’s last-eight win against Palace last season before they fell to Newcastle in the semi-finals.
The Brazil international then spent 11 months on the sidelines after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
Following three substitute appearances, Jesus could be unleashed from the start as Arteta rotates his side for a busy schedule of six matches in 20 days.
Arteta said the 28-year-old former Manchester City forward was ready to start.
“You can see now, not only in games but every day in training how much he wants it so he’s going to deserve a chance soon,” he said.
The manager praised Jesus for lifting the team’s belief and energy when he joined, despite his progress being hampered by serious injuries.
Jesus could take the place of Viktor Gyokeres, who has not scored from open play in his past six appearances.
Chelsea await the winners of the quarter-final tie.
