‘Ready to go’: Mikel Arteta was delighted by the impact one Arsenal player made against Fulham

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Mikel Arteta was delighted with the impact Eddie Nketiah made off the bench for Arsenal against Fulham on Saturday, speaking to the club’s official website.

The 23-year-old came off the bench for the fourth time this season, with Arsenal chasing the game after going 1-0 down to Fulham.

Although Nketiah didn’t get on the score sheet, he caused Fulham’s defenders plenty of problems.

With Fulham’s back four having to deal with an extra attacker, Nketiah was able to create plenty of space for his teammates.

It was the second time Nketiah had lined up alongside Jesus for Arsenal this season.

The pair occupied both of Fulham’s centre-backs, and forced Marco Silva to bring on Issa Diop and change the visitor’s shape.

Arteta delighted with Nketiah impact

Mikel Arteta highlighted the effect Nketiah had on Arsenal’s style of play and it’s importance, saying: “Well we wanted to attack their defence, change out shape and create other problems for them.

“And I think the way he (Nketiah) came on the pitch again was with blood in his eyes, ready to go in every action, and that’s what we need from our finishers.”

Arteta clearly appreciates the energy and effort Nketiah provides when he comes on.

The young Englishman is a great finisher when given opportunities in front of goal.

Although those chances didn’t arrive against Fulham, Arteta certainly sees his value in the side.

BBC pundit Charlie Adam agreed, saying he ‘brought life to the game’ when he came on.

The influence of playing and training with Gabriel Jesus is certainly going to help him as well.

The Brazilian has started his Arsenal career incredibly well, and Nketiah could learn a lot from how he fits into Arteta’s system.

For now, the 23-year-old will have to settle for minutes off the bench, but Arteta is clearly delighted with the impact Nketiah’s having.

In what’s going to be a frantic season, Arteta will have to rotate Jesus at some point.

And it will be up to Nketiah to continue impressing his manager and making the necessary impact when he’s given his chance.