Gabriel Martinelli described Bukayo Saka as ‘irreplaceable’ after Arsenal’s Premier League victory over Brentford.
Saka was absent as Arsenal came from behind to beat Brentford on New Year’s Day and is set to miss plenty more games over the coming weeks and months.
The England star pulled up during Arsenal’s victory over Crystal Palace just before Christmas and the hamstring injury required surgery, meaning he could be out until March.
Saka’s absence represents a huge blow to Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes but the Gunners kept the pressure on leaders Liverpool with a well-deserved win at Brentford.
Bryan Mbeumo put the hosts in front against the run of play but Arsenal were level before half-time thanks to Gabriel Jesus’ sixth goal in four games.
Arsenal scored twice in three second-half minutes shortly after the interval, Mikel Merino turning in a goalmouth bundle from a corner before Martinellismashed home after Brentford failed to deal with Ethan Nwaneri’s cross.
Asked whether he and Arsenal’s other attacking players felt more pressure to replace the injured Saka, Martinelli told TNT Sports: ‘No-one can replace him, he’s one of the best players in the world.
‘But we know the team we have, we trust ourselves and we will try our best. I’m sure he is happy with the result.’
Jesus, meanwhile, praised Arsenal’s performance at the Gtech Community Stadium as they ensured Brentford’s winless run now stands at five games.
‘I think the team did great today,’ said Jesus. ‘To come here and play the way we played is amazing.
‘Of course, the most important thing is the three points and we did it, but then the most important thing was how we reacted and we did it.
‘I keep working and everyone at the club can tell how I work every day, not just me but everyone. I don’t give up and it is not easy to play for a big club like Arsenal.
‘Now I can score and I am very happy – I want to keep scoring to help the team.’
Asked whether Arsenal can challenge Liverpool for the title this season, thefour-time Premier League winner added: ‘Yes for sure.
‘The previous two years was amazing. We didn’t win the league, but we were there fighting and we will again.’
Arsenal remain six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand.
Martin Keown feared for Arsenal’s title hopes before the game but insisted they were ‘alive and kicking’ after the comeback win in west London.
‘Arsenal picked up the intensity, that is a strong signal from the team,’ the Gunners legend said. ‘They are alive and kicking, still alive in this title race.
‘In the second half, they showed their class. It was really important for them to win tonight and get the job done.’
Title-chasing Arsenal return to Premier League action on Saturday with a trip to the Amex Stadium to face Brighton.
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