Press conference

'I love Gabi so much... more than all of you!'

Questions about Gabriel Martinelli dominated Mikel Arteta's post-match press conference on Sunday afternoon.

Our Brazilian teenager had produced another eye-catching display on our left-hand side at Newcastle United, setting up Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's goal as we secured an important three points in the north east. 

Here's everything Arteta had to say about Martinelli after the match: 

on Gabriel Martinelli...

I think they all played really well and Gabi is improving every week. He's taking his minutes in the right way and he's developing the way we all believe he can. Today he had an assist, which was an important moment, and he had some good moments off the left - and also trying to play as a No 9 as well. 

on Martinelli's playing time...

Just look at how much he's played in the last few years. Then how much he's played with me when he's available. Then we can discuss that. It's what happens. This debate is always happening when you don't win. If it's not him, it will be someone else. If it's not Gabi, it will be Lacazette, Willian or Pepe. It's part of it. 

on whether he sees Martinelli as a No 9 in the long-term...

Time will tell but I would like to develop him in both positions because I think he's got the potential to do both. 

on whether Aubameyang is the 'right connection' for Martinelli...

Yeah it is a connection. Having Granit behind him helps him in a way because he's more in the line, in the last line on the left where he is more comfortable. With Kieran it's a little bit different. Those relationships are ones we have to built. If there are any doubts, I love Gabi so much. More than all of you together!