Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah has opened up about his lack of game time this season and being behind star man Gabriel Jesus in the pecking order.
Nketiah has not started a Premier League game for the Gunners this term and has been limited to just 98 minutes of action across their first eight top-flight games.
In contrast, Jesus, who arrived this summer from Manchester City for £45m, has started all eight and has registered five goals and three assists.
Jesus’ run of form has helped Mikel Arteta’s side climb to the top of the Premier League table ahead of Sunday’s clash with Liverpool at the Emirates.
Nketiah, meanwhile, will be hoping for more minutes when Arsenal host Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday night.
The 23-year-old, who was handed the iconic No.14 shirt in the summer, featured in Arsenal’s opening win over FC Zurich last month, registering a goal and assist.
Speaking ahead of the match against Bodo/Glimt, Nketiah said: ‘He’s (Jesus) a great player. He’s good to play alongside and watch.
‘He’s had a really good start and he’s a great guy off the pitch so I’m really happy for him.
‘I don’t really see it as me versus him, it’s about whatever’s best for the team. There will be times when we play together. We’ve shown that we can play together.
‘The times we played in pre-season and I played with him, we showed that we can combine.
‘We’re both fluid strikers that like to move around. He’s had a good start and hopefully, it continues for the team.
‘My aim is to be starting and helping the team, but I respect the coach’s decision.
‘It’s down to me to keep working hard and putting in the performances. It’s a long season and we’re only a month in.
‘There will be a lot of opportunities for me to play, whether that be in Europe or in the league, and I’ll be ready whenever I’m called upon.
‘When you play for any big club there is always going to be competition, I’m not shy of that.
‘I’m happy to be part of a team that is doing well and will keep pushing hard to show that I deserve more minutes.’
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