“That’s what I was telling him” - Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus opens up on what he told Odegaard to execute plan of scoring in Carabao Cup win

Arsenal hat-trick hero Gabriel Jesus has revealed what he told Martin Odegaard in the EFL Cup quarterfinal win over Crystal Palace on Wednesday, December 18. The Gunners ran out 3-2 victors despite going behind early.

Speaking to the media after the match, Jesus stated that he urged Odegaard to break the line and find him making runs in behind the defenders. The Arsenal captain obliged and executed the plan to perfection.

"Obviously the first half wasn’t our best, but still in the second half we did our job, we created more, we kept the ball more, circulated the ball, made passes and then Martin put in two amazing balls in the end and B [Bukayo Saka] as well, and I could finish the action," Jesus said. "The quality that Martin has is amazing. He’s the type of a player that can pass these balls and put you in front of the goal."

He added:

"That’s what I was telling him; I said 'Martin I know your qualities, so I’ll go in behind. If it’s open, I go, you don’t need to look, I will be there.' He played amazing balls and I was able to finish the action. B as well, but I think everyone today tried their best, it’s not easy when you change a lot, normally we don’t play together a lot in the games, and that’s a little bit tricky. In the end, we did our job and won the game."

Jean-Philippe Mateta (4') opened the scoring in the match, but Arsenal responded well with a second-half hat-trick from Jesus (54', 73', 81'). Former Gunners man Eddie Nketiah (85') gave his side hope with a late strike but it wasn't enough for the Eagles.

Gabriel Jesus dedicates goals to his family after Arsenal win

Gabriel Jesus was under pressure to deliver heading into the game against Crystal Palace. Prior to the match, the 27-year-old had only scored once this season, against Preston in the EFL Cup.

The Brazilian, who netted a second-half hat-trick, claimed that he received inspiration from his daughter and dedicated his goals to his family.

"It’s a special time. I had pressure on my shoulders to score today, and then I walked onto the pitch with my daughter as well, so she gave me power, a smile, everything. Then I could score goals and celebrate with my family, and dedicate [my goals] to another baby," Jesus told the press.

Reports on Wednesday suggested that Arsenal are open to using Gabriel Jesus in a deal to land Dusan Vlahovic from Juventus. The Brazilian has struggled for minutes under Mikel Arteta, who prefers to use Kai Havertz in the No. 9 role.