Nicolas Pepe has perfect stage to complete Arsenal turnaround

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With the benefit of hindsight, it appears fair to say that Nicolas Pepe has ultimately benefitted from being sent off in Arsenal’s trip to Leeds in November.

Pepe was sent off following a clash with Gjanni Alioski at Elland Road. His actions were branded ‘unacceptable’ by Mikel Arteta following the game (via Football London).

Having struggled leading up to the stalemate, you could understand why some Arsenal fans were tempted to suggest that Pepe may be done at the Emirates.

He has not lived up to the transfer fee he was brought for. And few could have blamed Arteta if the red card was deemed to be the final straw.

However, Pepe responded superbly. He was outstanding in the Europa League while suspended in the top flight. And he now goes into Arsenal’s next game having scored twice in his last four games.

So perhaps it is fitting that the Gunners’ next opponents are Leeds.

Predicting how a game will play out when Leeds are involved is nearly impossible. But one thing that is almost certain is that Pepe will feel that he has an additional point to prove.

Based on where he has played recently, it looks likely that Pepe will be set to battle Luke Ayling rather than Alioski.

But the winger will need no reminding of how his evening ended in the previous fixture. And, perhaps worryingly for Leeds, he will surely be even more determined to make an impact at a time that is already proving to be his best spell in North London.