Mikel Arteta has praised Arsenal goalkeeper Emi Martinez on the club’s official website, as his excellent form continues.
Arsenal may have lost the North London derby last weekend, but Martinez still managed to catch the eye.
The Argentine stopper has been in superb form since stepping into Arsenal’s goal to replace Bernd Leno.
And Arteta claims that he never had any doubts over Martinez’s ability to step up, as he has been so impressive in training throughout his time at the club.
“In terms of Emi’s character and his goalkeeping ability, I didn’t have any question marks,” Arteta insisted.
“The way he trains every day, behaves and has been behaving since he’s been at the club is phenomenal.
“He was a question mark over how he was going to do because he didn’t have any Premier League experience and how he can deal with that game after game, and he’s shown that he’s more than ready to do it.
“He’s earned his place now, he’s doing really well and he’s playing with a lot of confidence. In key moments he’s been really helpful and he needs to continue to do that. It’s a marathon, a long run, and a football club like this demands that every day you’re at that level. That’s why he needs to keep going.”
Arteta may have not have had any doubts about Martinez, but when Leno was ruled out with injury there were real concerns expressed from many supporters around the Emirates Stadium.
Thankfully Martinez has grasped his opportunity to start with both hands, and when Leno does eventually return there is no guarantee he will start now.
Martinez, meanwhile, must be delighted to be receiving regular game time at Arsenal.
The 27-year-old was barely given a chance by Unai Emery, with Martinez having to play a reserve role throughout the Spaniard’s entire time in charge.
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