Former Arsenal man explains why Mikel Arteta has lost faith in one player after what he did vs Tottenham

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The North London Derby between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur got off to a typically fast and furious start.

Both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur had chances to go ahead in the opening period.

With around twenty minutes on the clock, the Gunners’ best opportunity up to that point fell to Gabriel Martinelli. 

Jorginho received the ball just inside the Tottenham half and pushed it forward to Leandro Trossard, who immediately found himself under pressure. However, the Belgian was still able to turn the ball around the corner and pick out the run of Martinelli, who suddenly found himself through on goal. 

The Brazilian drove forward into the Spurs box, with Bukayo Saka up with him in support. However, Martinelli neglected to look for the England winger and took on the shot himself.

However, his effort was tame and easily gathered by Guglielmo Vicario as the chance went begging.

• READ MORE: What is the North London Derby? Everything you need to know about the Arsenal and Tottenham rivalry

Former Arsenal defender Matt Upson takes aim at Gabriel Martinelli

Former Arsenal centre-back Matt Upson was far from impressed with Martinelli’s decision-making after he had been played through by Trossard.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5Live, the pundit said: “Trossard was different class here, he dropped short. Martinelli spinning in behind… He’s got to do better there, Gabriel Martinelli. 

“We talk about his end product not being at the level it needs to be, it’s the reason why Trossard has knocked him out of the team when everyone is fit. He doesn’t start Martinelli, because he just doesn’t make the most of those situations. It was a great opportunity.”

Martinelli form still a problem vs Tottenham Hotspur

Martinelli has been criticised recently, and has indeed fallen behind Trossard in the pecking order. He arguably only started for Arsenal today due to Mikel Arteta having so many key players absent. 

He has struggled to deliver in front of goal for some time, and appears low on confidence. In the first half of the North London Derby, this was clearly still an issue for the 23-year-old.

With Raheem Sterling now waiting in the wings, there is more pressure than ever on Martinelli to get back to his best or else he may find himself quickly falling even further down the pecking order.