Danny Gabbidon was full of praise for one ‘outstanding’ Arsenal player after he created a superb chance for Gabriel Jesus in the opening 20 minutes of their clash with Brighton on Saturday.
Mikel Arteta‘s side cleared another big hurdle in their push to win the Premier League title. A penalty from Bukayo Saka during the first-half helped settle what was a fascinating contest on the south coast.
It was Gabriel Jesus who controversially won the penalty. The Brazilian was apparently fouled by Tariq Lamptey, despite the Brighton full-back clearly making some contact with the ball.
Jesus would have been grateful to Saka at that stage as the forward had already missed a couple of big chances, including one where he managed to head the ball past the far post from close range.
It was Kai Havertz who created the opportunity for Jesus. The German was picked out by Jorginho inside the penalty area. And, while under pressure, he managed to lift the ball towards Jesus across the six-yard box.
Arsenal star lauded for ‘outstanding’ work before early chance
Speaking on BBC Radio Five Live (broadcast on 6/4; 17:46), Danny Gabbidon lauded Havertz, noting that he should have had an assist.
“Well, the pick out from Havertz is outstanding,” he said. “You can see what he’s trying to do, Jesus. He’s just trying to nod it back across the goalkeeper where the cross has come from.
“Doesn’t hit the target, but brilliant centre forward play from Havertz. Initially, the run in behind Dunk. Great composure and then a great pick out for Jesus, who’s making that run on the far post. Should do better.”
Passing of the torch between Gunners’ forwards
Havertz would get his rewards in the second-half. It was the 24-year-old who doubled Arsenal’s lead after the break, with Jorginho, once again, picking out the striker.
Arteta has eventually found the best role for Havertz. In truth, it has been apparent since the early weeks of the season is he is at his best as the one leading the line.
He did superbly up front in the first-half of the Community Shield. And Havertz then looked nowhere near as impressive as a number eight.
This run over the last few months has seen Havertz silence a lot of his doubters.
Gabriel Jesus was the striker to take Arsenal into title contention. Perhaps Kai Havertz may now be the one to get them across the line.
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