TBR View: Arsenal boss has perfect opportunity to start Gabriel Martinelli

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Arsenal face Olympiacos at the Emirates Stadium this evening with one foot in the quarter-final of the Europa League. As a result, it seems like the perfect opportunity to play Gabriel Martinelli.

The Gunners lead 3-1 from the first leg in Athens and will have to fancy their chances of sealing the deal in tonight’s game.

Arteta has suggested already that resting players isn’t in his thoughts but with a strong squad at his disposal, there could be a few changes in personnel.

The Spanish incumbent has done plenty of good during his time at Arsenal. Even this season he has started to steady the ship after a rough first half of the campaign.

In the eyes of some supporters, however, his treatment of Martinelli has been an aberration.

The Brazilian struggled with injury during the first half of the season but has been fit and ready to play for a few months.

Martinelli has sat out the last seven matches in the Premier League and hasn’t featured in the last two Europa League fixtures either.

It does seem a bizarre situation, considering Arteta keeps claiming Martinelli is ready when called upon.

Opportunity knocks

Tonight could be the night where opportunity knocks for the striker who netted 10 goals during the 2019/20 campaign.

Arsenal will want to get the first goal tonight but it does seem a long shot that Olympiacos will score three times in North London.

Martinelli has been utilised on the left-flank when called upon this season and that could allow Emile Smith Rowe to get himself a well-deserved rest.

The 19-year-old was box-office at times last season but by not using him his development is stalling.

Arteta must act and this evening needs to be Martinelli’s chance to shine.