Gabriel Jesus urges Arsenal to focus on Wolves before derby clash

Gabriel Jesus has warned his Arsenal team-mates to focus solely on facing Wolves before turning their attention to the upcoming north London derby.

Focus on the immediate challenge

The Gunners can open up a seven-point lead over Premier League title rivals Manchester City with victory at Molineux on Wednesday.

While Pep Guardiola’s side are not in action until Saturday, Mikel Arteta’s men face bottom side Wolves before Sunday’s showdown with Tottenham.

Despite the hosts sitting at the foot of the table with just nine points, Jesus insists complacency is not an option.

“We are not thinking about the derby,” said the Brazil forward.

“We are only thinking about Wolves on Wednesday and that is a tough game away.”

“We know the situation they are in but is an amazing team, an amazing club and we are aware they need points to get out of the their situation.”

“So, our focus is to go to Wolves, get the three points and that is it.”

Chasing trophies on four fronts

Jesus scored the final goal in Sunday’s 4-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Wigan Athletic.

The result keeps the north London club in contention for an unprecedented quadruple heading into March.

“Ninety per cent of my career has been at the top with strong squads, the national team, City and here,” added the 27-year-old, who has scored four times in his last six appearances.

“It is such a good thing because it keeps you on your toes and to do your best.”

“Obviously, we know we are alive in all the competitions – and we keep believing that we have to go game-by-game – and at the end of the season, we will see where we are.”

Injury concerns for Arteta

Arsenal are currently managing a growing injury list as the fixture schedule intensifies.

Defender Riccardo Calafiori missed the win over Wigan after sustaining an injury in the warm-up, while captain Martin Odegaard was absent following a knock against Brentford.

There was concern for Ben White after he was substituted in the second half, adding to a list that includes Mikel Merino and Kai Havertz.

However, the full-back later posted on social media indicating he had not suffered an injury and could be available for the trip to the West Midlands.