Arteta says Arsenal star does something impressive in ‘every training session’

Add as preferred source on Google

Mikel Arteta has raved about Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah in his post-match press conference after the Gunners beat Sunderland 5-1. Nketiah scored a superb hat-trick, but his future at Arsenal remains to be seen.

Nketiah, 22, has been struggling for game time all season. Just three substitute appearances have come his way in the Premier League – while he has played in three of Arsenal’s four Carabao Cup games, scoring five in total.

That is, after a brilliant hat-trick at The Emirates on Tuesday night against League One heavyweights Sunderland. He opened the scoring, bundling the ball home after Rob Holding’s header was blocked on the line.

Nicolas Pepe made it two after a neat pass from Cedric Soares, and while Sunderland did get one back – Arsenal were in control. Nketiah got his second after a cross from Nuno Tavares, before a third after a Nicolas Pepe nutmeg.

Then, substitute Charlie Patino got his name on the score sheet – after another assist from Pepe. A commanding performance from Arsenal, and Arteta spoke about soon-to-be free agent Nketiah’s work rate in training.

“We want to keep Eddie. We see how he trains, that’s what he does every day, he works so hard and puts the ball in the net every session. I am really delighted with him. Every time we need him, he responds,” Arteta told Football London.

Arteta on Nketiah: Arsenal want to keep him, but Nketiah needs exit

Even if Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang eventually leaves the club and Alexandre Lacazette does not sign a new deal, Nketiah still needs to go. Unfortunately, Arsenal are more likely to sign a replacement – than start Nketiah.

He is easily good enough to join a mid-table Premier League side and battle to start up top. Even in January, if the right club comes along, the ex-England Under-21 captain really needs to consider leaving The Emirates.