The Brazilian was ruled out for three months after suffering a knee injury on World Cup duty with his country in December.
Jesus’ absence has provided Nketiah with the opportunity for a rare stint in the side and the striker’s grabbed the chance with both hands.
Nketiah’s found the net in each of his last two starts, helping the Gunners to wins over West Ham and Brighton.
The Gunners have scored seven goals in the two games since Jesus’ injury, easing concerns that their title bid could collapse without the former Manchester City man.
And Odegaard says Nketiah’s ‘amazing’ performances have helped the side ease the absence of Jesus.
‘Everyone has to step up,’ said Odegaard.
‘We are missing a great player but you see the quality that Eddie has.
‘Two goals now and everything that he brings in the game also. You see the front players we have, we are always going to create chances and be dangerous, and it is just about getting the players in the right positions and good things will happen.
‘When a player like that (Jesus) is injured you will always miss him. He has great quality and great personality. He still gives us a lot outside the pitch. The energy he gives and everything at the training ground he still gives a lot.
‘But all the players need to step up when you miss someone like that and we have done excellent. Credit to Eddie to come in like that and perform like this. It is amazing to see.’
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