Garth Crooks praises Gabriel Martinelli as he includes Arsenal man in team of the week

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It was a successful weekend of Premier League football for Arsenal, as they avoided the Covid blitz to play their game at Leeds and run out comfortable 4-1 winners at Elland Road.

Goals from Gabriel Martinelli (2), Bukayo Saka, and Emile Smith Rowe meant it was a dominant display against an out of sorts Leeds side. Mikel Arteta will have been delighted with what he saw, with his young talents leading the way in the midst of problems with senior players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Across the board, Arsenal were great. The defence looked solid, while in midfield the return of Granit Xhaka has helped as well. But it was up top where Arsenal really shone. And according to BBC pundit Garth Crooks, the performances of Gabriel Martinelli should make people take notice.

Including Martinelli in his latest team of the week, Crooks was full of the praise for the youngster.

“I do like Martinelli. Quick, direct and not lacking in confidence in front of goal. The Brazilian’s finish against West Ham was classy while his two goals at Leeds simply established the fact this lad is to be taken very seriously,” Crooks wrote.

“It might be a reason for Mikel Arteta to let Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang go, although I wouldn’t advise it just yet.”

At the moment, Martinelli’s form is keeping Smith Rowe on the bench as well. And with his goals, it’s not looking like he’s going to get dropped any time soon either.

TBR’s View: Martinelli Like A New Signing For Arsenal

Talk about taking your chance. Martinelli has come into the fold and looks like a new £40m striker for the Gunners.

His pace, his movement, and of course, the finishing, mean he is already playing a big role at Arsenal. This is massive for Mikel Arteta, especially with the problems he’s faced with Aubameyang and others.

Arsenal fans will simply hope for this run from Martinelli to continue. If it does, then the top four might well be in sight.