Ainsley Maitland-Niles left with fantastic opportunity amid Arsenal’s struggles

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Mikel Arteta will surely be asking for trouble if he does not consider a number of changes for Arsenal’s next Premier League game.

The Gunners have won six of their last 12 games. On its own, that record is underwhelming. However, it is a lot worse when you consider that five of those wins have come in the Europa League.

The latest setback to Arteta came at the weekend when Arsenal lost the North London derby. The result arguably has the potential to be a pivotal moment in the Emirates careers of a number of players – including those who played no part in the game.

One of those who was not involved was Ainsley Maitland-Niles. In many respects, his absence was surprising as it came just a few days after he had been a standout performer in their latest Europa League win.

Maitland-Niles was outstanding in midfield against Rapid Vienna. And yet, he was an unused substitute at the weekend.

It was not a decision that paid off. But with the 23-year-old capable of playing at right-back or in midfield, it is surely fair to say that he has to come into contention for a chance against Burnley.

Hector Bellerin received a lot of criticism for his derby display. Meanwhile in midfield, Thomas Partey was taken off due to injury.

It remains to be seen how long Partey is sidelined for. And Maitland-Niles does still have rivals in both positions even if Bellerin and Partey play no part this weekend.

But it is arguably becoming harder for Arteta to ignore the form of those impressing in the Europa League.

Maitland-Niles is one of those knocking on the door for only his third league start this season.

And given the form that some of his teammates are showing, the youngster – who has never made more than 15 league starts in a single campaign – has arguably rarely had a better opportunity to become a key player for the Gunners.