Just like London buses, you wait a long while for one goal, then two pop up in next to no time.
Gabriel Martinelli found that out during Arsenal’s 5-0 demolition job of Crystal Palace, which left Paul Merson amazed in the Sky Sports studios.
Heading into stoppage-time, Arsenal were leading 3-0, with substitute Gabriel Martinelli searching for some form after just two Premier League goals since October.
Well, within a flash, the 22-year-old netted a brace for Mikel Arteta’s side, with Paul Merson thinking he was watching a replay when his second goal was scored, as he told Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports (20/01/24 at 2:25 pm).
There has been a lot of pressure on the Brazil international this season because, after scoring 15 Premier League goals last term, there has been an obvious drop-off from the winger during this campaign.
That’s why Mikel Arteta opted to bench one of his key players, which has now worked a treat because the Arsenal boss now has a much-needed selection headache.
As Gabriel Martinelli was adding salt to Crystal Palace’s wounds, the away fans lifted a banner criticising their club and its lack of ambition, with Paul Merson offering a cheeky response to it all.
Gabriel Martinelli is back among the goals
“Oh, wow,” responded Merson to Martinelli’s second goal. “Is that a replay?!”
Steve Sidwell added: “It’s exactly the same finish. Martinelli down the left-hand side, he opens it up and right foot into the bottom corner. 5-0. Palace fans are walking out of the door.”
Merson cheekily responded: “The ones holding up the banner aren’t.”
Arsenal are back to winning ways
This was much-needed for Arsenal and it has come at the right time after their recent winter break in Dubai.
Yes, many across the Premier League would have been watching in resignation as Kevin de Bruyne came off the bench and turned the game around for Manchester City against Newcastle United last week.
With the Belgian star back on the pitch, plus Erling Haaland’s return around the corner, then if they turn it on, nobody can do anything about it.
But Arsenal can’t feel sorry for themselves but make sure they take the fight right until the end because this title race is far from over.
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