"Like an animal" - Arsenal's Zinchenko reveals which player is "always the best" in training, it's not Saka

Oleksandr Zinchenko revealed which Arsenal player has always been the best in training.

The Ukraine international has been central to Mikel Arteta’s side’s fortunes this term.

The Gunners are currently at the Premier League summit, some eight points adrift of Zinchenko’s previous employers Manchester City.

Since joining in the summer the 26-year-old has established himself as Arsenal’s first choice left back ahead of Kieran Tierney.

Indeed, throughout Arsenal’s surge to a first title in 19 years Zinchenko has started 21 of the 22 Premier League matches he has been available for.

While the left-back has impressed in north London, the Ukrainian was full of praise for another former City star - Gabriel Jesus.

Zinchenko on Jesus’ Arsenal impact

Zinchenko heaped praise on his friend and Arsenal colleague Jesus, noting, in particular, the Brazilian’s application in training.

Speaking to Sky Sports Zinchenko said: “Normally the guys in the middle, when trying to win the ball back [they put in] 50 per cent of their focus.

“But him, he’s like an animal. Sometimes there are a lot of frustrating moments in football - when you don’t play much when you didn’t play well in the last game - but him, his reaction in all these moments is incredible. Chapeau.

“At City, I was watching him thinking ‘Wow, that’s the way you need to react on these, these and these moments’.

“And he was always the best on the pitch in training sessions. Always.

“Amazing talent. I know that he worked so hard to be in the position he is in right now, and I’m so happy to know him personally.

“It’s a pleasure to have these kinds of teammates in your team.”