Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has said to BT Sport that Gabriel Martinelli played through the pain for his side last night.
Martinelli limped away from a tackle with Ethan Ampadu in the second-half of Arsenal’s game against Sheffield United, which sparked concerns that he could be injured.
However, the Brazilian forward said after the game that he was perfectly fine to play on Thursday in the Europa League to the club’s official website.
And Arteta said after the game that Martinelli should be applauded for his bravery, as he played through the pain to help his side to the three points.
“It was an ankle, he twisted it when he landed. It was pretty sore, but he’s a tough boy,” Arteta said.
Martinelli was certainly rewarded for his desire to stay on the pitch, as he netted Arsenal’s second goal in the contest.
The teenager found the back of the net from close range, as he netted his first Premier League goal of the season.
Martinelli’s vibrant display may have been enough to keep him in Arsenal’s team, after waiting so long for a chance.
The Gunners are next in action against Slavia Prague on Thursday, in what looks like the biggest game of their season so far.
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