Martinelli could make Arsenal starting XI against Man United after ‘big’ news – Campbell
Kevin Campbell has heaped praise on Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli ahead of Thursday’s trip to Manchester United.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Gunners and Everton striker said the 20-year-old had a “phenomenal” impact from the bench against Newcastle United.
Martinelli scored his first goal of the season in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Eddie Howe’s side.
As quoted by Football.London (29th November), Mikel Arteta described the goal as “a big moment” for the Brazilian.
In the same press conference, Arteta revealed Bukayo Saka had suffered a muscular injury in Saturday’s victory.
Campbell has tipped Martinelli to replace Saka if he is not fit to start at Old Trafford on Thursday.
“I’ve said it time and time again,” he told Football Insider. “If the young man gets an opportunity he has to take it and boy did he take it.
“To score 90 seconds after coming onto the pitch is phenomenal. He was a constant threat running in behind. He gives Arsenal another dimension.
” Arteta has a real headache right now. That is exactly what Arteta wants though.
“Martinelli has done himself a whole lot of favours with that performance.
“If Saka is out Martinelli has got to be saying, ‘I want that spot.’ It’s Manchester United next, he will want to start.
“Martinelli has not done himself any harm with that performance against Newcastle. He’s done himself a whole lot of favour.”
Martinelli has struggled for game time this season and has started only two Premier League fixtures.
He has two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract at the Emirates.
In other news, Arsenal have been tipped to ‘cash in’ on big-money signing after Sky update.