Charlie Nicholas wants Nicolas Pepe dropped for Arsenal’s second-leg tie

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Charlie Nicholas has told Sky Sports that he expects Nicolas Pepe to keep his place for Arsenal’s tie with Olympiacos on Thursday, but suggested that he would drop the winger for Gabriel Martinelli. 

The Gunners take a 1-0 lead into the second-leg. And Mikel Arteta’s men are looking to continue an unbeaten run that has continued throughout 2020.

Pepe goes into the game having provided three assists in his last three appearances, as well as one goal. However, Nicholas believes that the forward would be fortunate to keep his place against the Greek side.

“I do not think this is a certain win for Arsenal. Mikel Arteta will sit and read into the fact that they let in two against Everton. Bernd Leno gets Arsenal out of a lot of holes but he did slip up for the second goal,” he told Sky Sports.

“Joe Willock and Alexandre Lacazette will come in I think. You have to keep Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in for his goals. Will Nicolas Pepe get another run? Probably. Does he deserve it? Probably not. I would probably look at Gabriel Martinelli.”

TBR View – Pepe does deserve start

It seems unfair, if not bizarre, to suggest that Pepe does not deserve a place in the team. Admittedly, Arsenal have a lot of quality going forward. And Martinelli has shown that he is an outstanding talent.

But Arsenal do not have to worry about playing at the weekend with their clash with Manchester City being postponed.

So Arteta has a fantastic opportunity to pick his strongest possible lineup against Olympiacos. And Pepe is arguably one of the names who should be on the team sheet.

The 24-year-old has scored twice and contributed two assists in five Europa League appearances this season. Remarkably, he has started just once in Europe this term and spent less than 180 minutes on the pitch.

And it would not be a surprise if he does make a crucial impact this week if he does play against Olympiacos.