Speaking on the Sky Sports Football Podcast, Arsenal legend, Alan Smith has been discussing Gabriel Martinelli’s recent form heading into the Gunners’ game against Aston Villa.
The Brazilian is having the best season of his career, without a doubt, but there have been some signs in recent weeks that he’s out of form.
He’s not scored a goal for a little while, and his general performances haven’t been living up to his high standards in recent weeks.
Luckily, in January, Arsenal brought in a player that can compete with Martinelli in the shape of Leandro Trossard, and Smith believes it may now be time for the Belgian to get a chance in the team ahead of the Brazilian.
START TROSSARD
Smith spoke about Arsenal’s left-wing conundrum.
“Leandro Trossard is certainly a player that can come off the bench and have an effect, but also start games. I wonder if he will start at Villa Park now. Martinelli hasn’t looked at it, he’s been sensational for most of this season, he covers the ground so quickly and gets through so much work, he might just have to step out for a game or two and Trossard is a more than capable deputy,” Smith said.
DESERVES A CHANCE
Trossard has looked lively each and every time he has stepped onto the pitch for Arsenal, and he more than deserves a chance to start in this game.
Now, that isn’t to say that Martinelli should lose his place long-term, but he needs to be shown that you can’t afford to let standards slip even slightly when you’re competing at this level.
Dropping Martinelli for a game or two could light a new fire under him and make him into an even better player.
