BACK OF THE NKET

Nketiah vows to step up and fill the void left by Jesus injury

- MATTHEW DUNN

STRIKER Eddie Nketiah has vowed to step into the breach once again as Gabriel Jesus begins his recovery from more knee surgery.

Jesus originally picked up the injury during the World Cup in Qatar in December and was ruled out for three months last season.

He had been edging his way back towards full fitness during pre-season but began to feel discomfort during the tour of the States.

Investigation by surgeons revealed it was better to clean out the joint immediately, rather than risk more serious damage further into the season, meaning the Brazilian will miss the opening weeks of the coming campaign.

It is a massive blow for Arsenal as they aim for a more sustained title challenge this time around, having faded in the closing stages last term.