Paul Merson left in shock that Arteta started 22-year-old for Arsenal against Southampton

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Paul Merson “couldn’t believe” Mikel Arteta “turned to” Eddie Nketiah to play upfront in Arsenal’s defeat against Southampton.

The Gunners lost 1-0 against the Saints on Saturday which was their third consecutive Premier League defeat.

Arsenal’s lull in form has come at the worst possible time as the race for the all-important fourth Champions League spot intensifies.

With captain Alexandre Lacazette absent for the clash at the St Mary’s Stadium due to testing positive for Covid-19.

Arteta decided to bring Nketiah into the side in place of the Frenchman which was the 22-year-old’s first top-flight start of the season.

Arsenal now have back-to-back matches against Chelsea and Manchester United, but their lack of goalscoring prowess may prove the difference in missing out on Champions League football.

In tonight’s clash against Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Arsenal will be coming against “two of the best defenders in the business” in Merson’s eyes in Antonio Rudiger and Thiago Silva.

Given Merson’s views on Nketiah leading the line, the former midfielder would be surprised to see the England Under-21 international lead the line against the FA Cup finalists.

Merson said: “I couldn’t believe he turned to Eddie Nketiah at Southampton.

“He has hardly played and then he’s thrown into a must-win game. What chance does he have really?”

It remains to be seen whether Lacazette will be fit enough for the trip to west London, with Arteta suggesting that a late decision will be made.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta said: “With Lacazette, we have to see him to see whether he will be available with the team.”