“When he has a bit more time on the ball, he actually overthinks it” - Theo Walcott shares thoughts on Arsenal star
Former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott shared his thoughts on Gabriel Martinelli following the Brazilian's performance in the Gunners' 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth. The north London side played most of the game with 10 men after William Saliba was sent off in the first half at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday (October 19).
However, with the game level 0-0, Martinelli, who came on as a sub, had the opportunity to put his side ahead through a one-on-one situation. Unfortunately, the young attacker shot straight at the goalkeeper, leaving the tie open for the Cherries to capitalize.
Speaking after the game, Walcott was quoted by Football365 speaking about Martinelli (via Just Arsenal):
"Of course, it’s a great save, but look, this is Arsenal, they want to win the league. It’s a massive moment for not just the Gunners, but for Martinelli himself.
“You don’t have to overthink it. I think at times, Martinelli, when he has a bit more time on the ball, he actually overthinks it instead of actually doing something instinctive."
He added:
“And I think that’s probably what he’s down for at times with his goalscoring record at the moment.”
There were question marks over Martinelli's fitness before the start of the game after he seemingly picked up a slight issue while on international duty. However, he did appear for the Gunners but failed to add to the two goals and assists he's produced in the Premier League so far.
The dropped points could prove to be crucial for Mikel Arteta's side, who sit third in the league standings, four points short of leaders Liverpool. They're also three points behind second-placed Manchester City.
Pundit unimpressed with Arsenal star for key error in Bournemouth defeat
Pundit Emmanuel Petit singled out Arsenal winger Leandro Trossard for a key error in Arsenal's defeat to Bournemouth. The Belgian attacker started on the left wing for Mikel Arteta but failed to influence the proceedings.
Trossard played the pass backwards, which led to William Saliba's sending-off. The Frenchman was left with no choice but to tug the shirt of Evanilson who was through on goal.
Speaking to Premier League productions, Petit said (via Arsenal Insider):
“I am just wondering why Trossard gave the ball away like that. When you look at the action. Saliba was playing the offside, so he was confident that (with the) team and he (Trossard) gave away the ball easily."
Despite this performance, one would expect Leandro Trossard to either start on the wing or in midfield against Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday (October 22). Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard are out with injury.