Arsenal ran out 3-2 winners over Vitoria in the Europa League, but they weren’t fully convincing.
Arsenal ran out 3-2 winners over Vitoria yesterday, but their performance in the contest was not particularly convincing.
The Gunners fell behind twice in the contest, and were only rescued by two late free-kicks from Nicolas Pepe.
Unai Emery named a much changed line-up for Arsenal in the contest, with plenty of his back-up players being handed a chance to impress.
But Keown feels that very few of the Gunners team took the opportunity to stake their claim for a regular first-team spot.
He said: “Character and personality are things you have to have in abundance if you’re going to be a success. It was a difficult night for Arsenal.
“It was the second string, they all have been moaning ‘I should be in the first-team’. You’ve got to go and show that, I should be on the pitch.
“You have to make your mark and there was very few players that made me think they’ll be in the first-team. Maybe Tierney at left-back, and Martinelli I like the look of, but the rest fought hard but really didn’t shine.”
Martinelli scored Arsenal’s first goal of the night as he continued his fine run of form since signing, while Tierney was a constant threat down the left.
There were very few other Arsenal players who caught the eye though, which makes Emery’s job of picking a team for the weekend easier.
Arsenal host Crystal Palace on Sunday, when they will be expected to pick up the three points at the Emirates Stadium.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
