Arsenal legend Martin Keown has backed 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri to fill the gap left by Bukayo Saka’s hamstring injury, which could sideline the star winger until March.
Saka, a key player for Arsenal this season, has contributed five goals and ten assists in the Premier League. His injury during Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 win over Crystal Palace comes as a major blow to the Gunners’ title hopes.
With a lengthy recovery period ahead, Arsenal may explore the transfer market, but Keown believes Nwaneri could be the answer.
The young midfielder has impressed in limited appearances this season, and Keown suggests he could adapt to a new role on the right wing.
“It’s up to someone to step up,” Keown told talkSPORT. “Maybe Ethan Nwaneri, who has been playing in the Odegaard role, could come into the front line and give us something different. He’s left-footed, so why not push him into the top line? There are options for the manager.”
“Ethan can play as a right attacking midfielder, a left attacking midfielder, or a right winger,” Arteta said. “There’s even potential for him to develop as a No. 9. He has a tremendous ability to find the back of the net.”
“Jesus needs to sustain this form,” Keown added. “There’s less creativity now with Saka out, and it’s up to players like Jesus to step up.”
Arsenal will face Ipswich Town at the Emirates on Friday in their first match without Saka. All eyes will be on Arteta’s tactical decisions and whether Nwaneri can rise to the challenge as Arsenal aim to maintain their Premier League title push.