Gabriel Jesus is closing in on a return

ARSENAL fans are buzzing with excitement ahead of tonight’s (Thursday) Europa League clash with Sporting – but it has nothing to do with the game.

There is growing speculation that Gabriel Jesus could be back on the bench after the Brazil forward was seen taking part in training this week in the build up to the last-16 first-leg showdown in Portugal.

Jesus has not featured for the club since requiring surgery in order to fix a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury that he suffered at the World Cup. The number nine hasn’t played for the Gunners since their 2-0 win over Wolves in November.

Mikel Arteta has refused to confirm if Jesus has travelled to Portugal with the rest of the Arsenal squad.

Speaking after the thrilling 3-2 victory over Bournemouth at the weekend the Gunners’ boss said that he would not be rushing the centre forward back into action, adding: “It is true that we need to see when he’s back what level he is at, how we’re going to fit him in and how we’re going to load him with minutes and in which games.”

Prior to his injury, Jesus played a vital role in Arsenal’s incredible start to the Premier League season – scoring five goals and assisting another five in 14 appearances.

His return could prove crucial, especially with the only other outright striker in Arsenal’s squad, Eddie Nketiah, suffering with an ankle injury. Leandro Trossard, who has been used as a false nine, is also sidelined with a groin injury.