Press conference

Arteta gives the latest on Gabriel Martinelli

Gabriel Martinelli's fitness was a big talking point following Tuesday's Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester City.

Our Brazilian forward was hurt following a collision with Zach Steffen and forced to leave the pitch through injury just two minutes into the second half.

 

And Mikel Arteta was able to provide an update on Martinelli in his post-match press conference.

 

"It was just a really bad kick on his shin and it was swelling up and he could not continue," our manager said.

 

"[At half-time] he was pushing, he was saying he was completely fine, that he wanted to carry on. He had a scar that wasn't open and he wanted to try, so we gave him the opportunity to try and when he was on the pitch he was uncomfortable so it was an easy decision to take him off.

 

"He has a unique energy and a way to transmit his passion for the game," Arteta added. "He plays the game in a different way to any other player. It's hard to compare him, but what I have to say is that it's great to have him back.

 

"To bring that experience, that fight... to play against this opponent after such a long time out, in the way he did in the first half, it's something to be really proud and happy about."

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