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‘It’s too much’: Paul Merson claims £100k-a-week Arsenal player cannot mustard in first XI

Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images
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Paul Merson has warned Arsenal that Eddie Nketiah isn’t good enough to lead the forward line, after the Gabriel Jesus injury.

The Brazil international has been sidelined until approximately March [Sky Sports] following a knee surgery this week.

It’s a massive blow for Arsenal and their Premier League title ambitions, with Mikel Arteta’s side top of the standings going into Christmas.

The good news is that a transfer window is on our doorstep.

Nketiah hasn’t scored in 12 Premier League outings this season.

Arsenal FC v FK Bodo/Glimt: Group A - UEFA Europa League
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

And the former Arsenal midfielder does not believe that Nketiah – who earns £100,000 per week at the Emirates [Sun] – can be trusted to successfully replace Jesus as a number nine up front.

He told The Express: “Eddie Nketiah can’t keep it up, no disrespect to the kid. Of course he can’t. It’s too much to ask. He is brilliant to come on as a sub but they’ve got to go and get a focal point.”

Honestly, Merson is spot on here.

Talented as Nketiah may be, Jesus is a thousand miles ahead of him as a footballer.

He came into the first XI toward the end of last season and scored some big goals, but the pressure will be far bigger this time around.

Truthfully, Arsenal would be a touch negligent if they didn’t sign a replacement for Jesus during the January window.

This Gabriel Jesus injury could potentially cost the North Londoners big time, but they could also salvage their title bid – only if they make the right decision next month.

Eddie Nketiah arsenal chelsea
Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images