Joe Cole reacts to Nicolas Pepe’s display in Arsenal draw

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Joe Cole has told BT Sport (broadcast on 6/3; 14:34) that Nicolas Pepe made a real difference as he came on during Arsenal’s frustrating draw with Burnley on Saturday – and suggested that that is the kind of role he should play for Mikel Arteta’s men moving forward.

Pepe was one of those to drop out of the starting lineup for the trip to Turf Moor. But he was brought on with just over 20 minutes remaining as the Gunners chased a winner.

It proved to be an eventful cameo for the 25-year-old. He was involved in two penalty shouts, and was teed up with what seemed to be a perfect opportunity to potentially score the winner.

The first claim for a spot-kick was somehow turned down. It seemed to be clear that Eric Pieters moved his arm towards the ball. However, Arsenal were not awarded a penalty.

Later on, the referee did point to the spot after Pepe’s shot was blocked in front of the line by Pieters. However, replays showed that the ball had actually hit the Burnley defender’s shoulder. And thus, the decision was reversed.

Meanwhile, Pepe – who earns £100,000-a-week, according to Spotrac – fluffed his lines when presented with a brilliant chance. Nevertheless, Cole suggested that his contribution showcased the best way to use the attacker.

“He had an impact,” he told BT Sport. “This is, for me, the role he now plays for Arsenal. He comes on and he makes things happen.

‘Made a difference’

“He made something. He came on the pitch and he had a go and he probed. Willian, was not one of his best days, and this guy made a difference. For me, it’s a clear penalty.

“This [the missed chance] is the bad side of him. This is on his good foot, just get your foot on it and stroke it home.

“This [the volley that was blocked by Pieters] is an unbelievable bit of technique.”

Interestingly, Pepe’s record this season suggests that Cole may be yet to be proved right. He has made 19 Premier League appearances this term, being subbed on nine times.

Four of his five goals however, have come when he has started. Of course, he will generally be on the pitch for longer when he does start, but his form would suggest that he is not always able to get involved when brought off the bench.

But with Arsenal boasting so much quality going forward, Pepe may have to settle for a more peripheral role for the time-being.