‘Improving every week’: Mikel Arteta lauds Arsenal star after Newcastle win

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Mikel Arteta has lauded Gabriel Martinelli following Arsenal’s win over Newcastle United on Sunday, and claimed – in comments reported by Football London – that the Gunners starlet is improving every week.

It has been a difficult season for Martinelli. He began the campaign on the sidelines as he continued his comeback from a long-term injury.

Arteta took his time to bring him back into the fold upon his return. And it seemed for some time, that his use of Martinelli was causing a lot of frustration amongst the supporters.

However, the 19-year-old has become a much more prominent member of the side in recent weeks. And he stepped up once again on Sunday as he provided an assist in the 2-0 win at Newcastle.

And Arteta suggested that he was one of a number of players he was impressed with at St James’ Park.

“I think they all played really well,” he said, as reported by Football London. “Gabi’s improving every week. He’s taking his minutes in the right way.

“He’s developing in the way we all believe he can. Today he had an assist, some good moments on the left and trying to play him as no.9 as well.”

TBR View: Martinelli looks to be back on track

Arsenal have an incredible talent on their hands in Martinelli – who earns £90,000-a-week, according to Spotrac. If he can remain on track, he could be one of the most exciting talents in the Premier League.

You could understand why Arteta may have wanted to reintroduce him to the side cautiously. He is still a teenager, who was making his way back from an incredibly long spell on the sidelines.

It is important to not get too carried away with the current expectations. Martinelli is going to have less impressive days at times.

But the signs are certainly extremely encouraging.