For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta the return of Gabriel Jesus to his forward line must feel like the signing of a new player.
The Brazilian was back in the starting lineup for the first time in the Premier League since November on Saturday and struck twice in a 4-1 defeat of Leeds United.
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)
The former Manchester City frontman, who suffered a knee injury at the World Cup, was substituted in the second half and left the pitch to a standing ovation.
His first goals in six months helped Arsenal restore their eight-point lead over Manchester City in the title race and with nine games remaining the Londoners are close to winning the Premier League for the first time since 2004.
There are several tough hurdles still to overcome and Arteta’s squad is being stretched by injuries and illness, but Jesus being back is a massive tonic.