According to Tim Sherwood, Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah is a superior player to Manchester United’s £64million signing Rasmus Hojlund.
Nketiah scored a hat-trick against Sheffield United on Saturday, marking his first hat-trick in the Premier League for Arsenal.
Although Nketiah has often been a backup player at Arsenal, injuries to Gabriel Jesus have given him more chances to showcase his talent.
Manager Mikel Arteta has shown a preference for Nketiah over Jesus when the Brazilian is fit.
Jesus scored and assisted in the Champions League match against Sevilla on Tuesday, but suffered a hamstring injury, giving Nketiah another opportunity to lead the attack against Sheffield United.
Nketiah seized this chance and even wore the captain’s armband after Bukayo Saka’s departure from the field.
Former Tottenham manager Tim Sherwood believes that Nketiah is a better player than Hojlund, who joined Manchester United for a hefty fee in the summer transfer window.
Hojlund has yet to score in six Premier League matches for Manchester United, but has three goals in as many Champions League games.
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Manchester United has struggled this season, and Sherwood suggests that Nketiah would be a starter for the team over the Danish striker.
“I feel sorry for Eddie because people, including Arsenal fans, always focus on what he can’t do,” Sherwood said on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday.
“I prefer to focus on what players can do. Nketiah can play for numerous top teams, including Manchester United. He is an improvement over Hojlund.
“Manchester United spent a lot of money on him.
“In my opinion, he is a top-class player who deserves to play for Arsenal at the highest level of the Premier League.
“Jesus will greatly support him as well.
“We are always searching for something new, but we should appreciate what we have right in front of us.
“This young man has come through Arsenal’s academy and had opportunities to leave, but he chose to stay and fight for his place.
“Mikel recognizes his dedication to the club. Today, he wore the armband with a match ball. A proud moment for him and his family.”
Nketiah’s hat-trick brings his goal tally to five in 14 matches across all competitions this season.
Michael Johnson is your soccer guru, providing extensive coverage of soccer. With a global perspective, he delivers match reports, player interviews, and insights into the beautiful game, ensuring readers stay connected to the world of soccer.