Sky Sports Pundit Amazed by Arsenal Star’s ‘Brilliance’ in 5-1 League Cup Win Over Bolton
Arsenal secured a spot in the fourth round of the League Cup with a dominant 5-1 victory over League One outfit Bolton Wanderers. Mikel Arteta gave four players their debuts, including first starts for Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, with 16-year-old Jack Porter making his debut in goal for the Gunners.
Despite the young lineup, Arsenal had a comfortable night at the Emirates, with goals from Declan Rice, Nwaneri, and Kai Havertz leading to an easy victory. Raheem Sterling also netted his first goal for Arteta’s side.
However, Sky Sports pundit Michael Bridges was particularly struck by one moment of individual brilliance from an Arsenal player.
Gabriel Jesus’ ‘Brilliance’ Applauded for Role in Arsenal Goal Against Bolton
During Sky Sports’ coverage, Bridges, a former Sunderland striker, praised Gabriel Jesus for his role in Havertz’s goal. The Brazilian striker managed to beat two Bolton defenders while losing his boot in the process.
Signed for £45m in 2022, Jesus has had a slow start to the season, with Havertz taking the spotlight in Arteta’s attack. Although Jesus didn’t score, he delivered a standout performance with a moment that was arguably the best play of the evening.
Bridges said during commentary: “There’s Brazilian brilliance from Jesus on that right-hand side, he’s got no right to win it. He loses his football boot but he plays the pass, and then it’s the man who’s been magnificent tonight, Sterling. Havertz is the fastest to react because he’s the freshest. But that moment from Jesus, the whole of the Emirates will be delighted to see that. That’s what football’s all about.”
**Jesus Reflects on His Performance for Arsenal Tonight**
Despite not contributing to the scoresheet, Jesus played well leading the line in a game where Arsenal’s academy talents were the highlight.
However, Jesus may feel he could have done more to make an impression on Arteta, especially against a lower-league team like Bolton. The striker is yet to score this season after a disappointing campaign last year.
It’s expected that Jesus will return to the bench for Arsenal’s Premier League match against Leicester City, and the Brazilian knows that tonight was a chance to prove his worth as Arsenal’s main striker against a team that was there to be beaten.