EDDIE NKETIAH is ready to prove that there is no need for Arsenal to make a drama out of their Gabriel Jesus crisis.

Mikel Arteta’s best laid plans for the new season have been plunged into uncertainty by Jesus knee operation.

Arsenal have been rocked by an injury to Gabriel Jesus

Eddie Nketiah insists that he can step up to the plate and fill the void

The Brazilian international, who cost £45 million, underwent surgery on Wednesday morning and will be out for six weeks.

As a result, he would be ineligible for the Gunners’ Community Shield match against Manchester City on Sunday as well as their opening four League games of the season against Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, Fulham, and Manchester United.

However, Nketiah, 24, is confident in his ability to lead the line without Jesus after proving his value in a similar role the previous season.

He says: “Gabby is a big player for us and we obviously need him back as soon as possible.

“So the manager has got a tough decision to make but he knows whenever he calls me that I can deliver and help the team.

“I played some really big games last season and I really enjoyed the test. I was able to contribute and improve myself.

“I don’t feel as though I’m here to fill in for anyone. But I pride myself on always being ready to take on whatever role the manager wants me to fill.

“It’s all about playing at the highest level, competing for trophies and helping the team in whatever way I can.

“There are many players here who can play in the central striker’s position and we’re all good players.

“Everyone is going to have a contribution so it’s all about being ready to contribute and hopefully I can do that throughout the season.”

Nketiah’s goal for Arsenal in Wednesday’s 1-1 draw with Monaco served as a timely reminder of his finishing prowess.

Nketiah scored six goals in his first six games as Jesus’ Arsenal replacement following the World Cup last year, when the Brazilian’s knee injury forced him to miss the remainder of the season.

And even though the young Londoner’s scoring later dried up before Leandro Trossard replaced him, his optimism that he can contribute significantly to Arsenal this season has not been diminished.

His confidence was further boosted when he was handed the captain’s armband by Arteta ahead of Wednesday’s final pre-season friendly.

He admitted: “It was an amazing feeling for myself and all my family and I’m really grateful to the coach for trusting me like that.

“I only found out just before the match and I’m really grateful to have had that opportunity. It was a really nice moment.”