‘He’s very close’: Arteta says Arsenal youngster’s on the verge of becoming a starter now

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Mikel Arteta has told Arsenal’s official website that Eddie Nketiah is ‘very close’ to becoming a starter for his side.

Nketiah has scored twice for Arsenal already this season, but most his appearances have come as a substitute.

Alexandre Lacazette has been favoured over Nketiah so far.

But it seems that the Frenchman’s spot in Arteta’s favoured line-up is now under real threat.

“Well, he’s very close because he’s already challenging everybody every week, whether he’s starting or not,” Arteta said, when asked if Nketiah is close to becoming a starter.

“I always have no doubts with him because of the way he trains and performs, his goalscoring record is getting better and better every week. He’s evolving the right way and this is what we need, players challenging and knocking on the door to become starters for us.”

Arteta has already shown great faith in Nketiah since taking charge, after recalling him from loan and including him regularly in Arsenal’s squad.

The 21-year-old youngster has shown real flashes of promise during his time in Arsenal’s first team too.

Nketiah clearly is an expert finisher, and his movement is very clever for a player of such tender years.

Nketiah could even be backed to start for Arsenal this weekend, as his pace may help the Gunners to stretch the City defence more than if Lacazette starts.