Arsenal told there is no one better than ‘key’ star who can ‘unlock’ David Raya tactic

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Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya is finally settling into his role well, and has performed superbly in recent weeks.

Raya came under intense scrutiny after making several errors, having surprisingly replaced popular goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, but in recent weeks has been praised for his distribution.

His quick throwing in particular, has played a huge part in several Arsenal goals, with Leandro Trossard’s strike against Crystal Palace being created by Raya’s throw to Gabriel Jesus.

Gabriel Martinelli offers a lot of pace on the left wing, and Sunday’s victory over Liverpool saw him pick up the ball in dangerous positions as a result of Raya’s passing.

Gabriel Martinelli the best player to “unlock” David Raya

Arsenal’s recent goals from fast breaks have mostly come through Raya’s quick thinking and Martinelli’s quick feet, and journalist James McNicholas has now claimed that the Brazilian should start ahead of Trossard against West Ham to unlock this tactic.

“I do think Martinelli does unlock something else in the team,” he stated on the Handbrake Off Podcast.

“David Raya’s distribution has been improving of late, and Arsenal are launching more quick counterattacks, and I think Martinelli is the key for that and always has been.

“Even when it was Aaron Ramsdale in goal, whenever the goalkeeper looks up, the guy who’s hairing into the distance is Martinelli.

“I’m pleased that Arsenal are bringing that into their game, because we’ve seen how difficult it is for them when they’re playing against these deep blocks, when defences are set, and we need to try and transition quickly so we can attack into space, and there’s no one really better at that than Martinelli.”

Martinelli’s speed is crucial for Arsenal’s attack

Despite Trossard’s impressive performances off the bench in the last two games, Martinelli looks back to his best, and his speed makes him a necessary starter on Sunday.

Arsenal’s fast breaks have helped them unlock deep blocks, and Martinelli has been the best target for Raya’s distribution.

The Brazil International should start in the away game against a West Ham team who may look to sit deep and counter. These fast breaks will be particularly useful against a midfield containing Edson Alvarez and Tomas Soucek, and Martinelli’s speed will be paramount to victory.

Martinelli has had a somewhat difficult campaign, but he looked full of life against Liverpool, and it will be hoped that he can build up a run of his best form as Arsenal enters a crucial part of the season.