‘Incredibly’: Arteta says he’s been blown away by 20-year-old Arsenal youngster in training

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Mikel Arteta has told Arsenal’s official website that Gabriel Martinelli has really impressed him during training sessions.

Making an impact

Martinelli has forced his way into Arsenal’s starting line-up recently, after a brilliant run of form.

Gunners fans have been calling for Martinelli to be given more starting chances for some time.

However, Arteta has always seemed reticent to actually go and use the 20-year-old with much regularity.

His recent run of three goals and an assist in three matches means that his place in Arsenal’s team is secure though, especially with Pierre Emerick Aubameyang not being considered for selection.

And Arteta has now praised just how hard Martinelli works at London Colney.

“We have to try to [develop] that without losing the passion, the energy and this capacity he has to just affect the game with the way he acts on the pitch. He trains incredibly hard, he is always willing to do more and he is not scared or afraid to take risks, and that is what I like about him,” Arteta said.

“I can imagine [playing against him] – you’re not going to have any time on the ball, every time the ball is 50/50 he is going to chase it and he’s going to use his body, his speed, his technical ability to get away from you.

“You have to be careful, because he can attack you one v one, he can attack your back, he can make movements off the ball… he is a real threat in front of goal.”

Aubameyang replacement?

Martinelli really is starting to prove that Arsenal have a gem on their hands. 

For just £6 million, he could well turn into one of the finest signings in the Gunners’ recent history.

He is part of an exciting crop of young Arsenal talent breaking through, which includes the likes of Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka.

Martinelli may actually end up being Aubameyang’s long-term replacement at the Emirates Stadium.

His emergence has come at just the right time with Aubameyang seemingly heading towards the exit door.

And it will be interesting to see whether Arteta uses his in-form striker against Sunderland in the League Cup tonight, or if he is rested to be utilised for Premier League matches now.