Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is backing Gabriel Jesus to do a job up front in the absence of injured Sergio Aguero.
Ahead of this week’s Premier League assignments, against Watford on Tuesday night (10 pm) and Chelsea on Saturday, Pep revealed that top scorer Aguero’s muscle problems would not be risked with so many important games coming up.
Jesus, 21, filled in for Aguero in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth but was unable to improve on his one goal tally in the Premier League this season.
And Guardiola says: “He just needs to relax. I love his work ethic. I said to him the work out on the pitch will sustain him. He helps us a lot. I am delighted.”
The Brazilian striker is still anxious, though, after missing out on goals.
Jesus says: “I always make it clear for Pep that I’m here to help the team regardless of how. Hopefully, I make the best out of my next chance.”
Tuesday night Premier League fixtures
West Ham v Cardiff (9.45 pm)
Bournemouth v Huddersfield (9.45 pm)
Brighton v Crystal Palace (9.45 pm)