Forget Mikel Merino, another Arsenal star was the true attacking difference against Chelsea

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Arsenal managed to run out with another London derby win as they beat rivals Chelsea in a huge clash on Sunday.

The Gunners needed a win at the Emirates Stadium to hold off the Champions League chasers behind them, which included the Blues.

In a tight encounter, Arsenal managed to beat Chelsea as Mikel Merino’s header from a corner proved to be the deciding goal.

While the Spaniard proved to be the difference for the North London side, there was another Arsenal player who proved to be key.

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Gabriel Martinelli impresses in Arsenal first-team return vs Chelsea

Many were left surprised when Gabriel Martinelli was handed his first start since returning to this side against Chelsea.

Martinelli only recently came back from a hamstring injury, featuring against Manchester United with a few minutes from the bench.

While it seemed unlikely the Brazilian could be thrown into action so quickly, Mikel Arteta felt confident enough to hand him a start.

It was a wise decision as Martinelli looked bright, turning Marc Cucurella inside and out on several occasions.

While the 23-year-old has regularly played on the left flank, his place on the right seemed to suit him very well.

His return could see him come back and find fitness in time for a crucial part of the season, which includes the Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

That could come as a boost on either flank or even as a centre-forward if Arteta decides to opt for him there.

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Gabriel Martinelli’s record vs Chelsea

Some players enjoy playing against certain opposition and for Gabriel Martinelli, that appears to be Chelsea.

While the winger only has a couple of goals to his name against the Blues, it is a fixture he has cemented himself in.

In ten appearances against the Blues, Martinelli has only experienced one defeat and three draws, with that winning feeling becoming quite regular against their rivals.

While he was unable to add another goal or assist against Chelsea this time around, his performance has put him back in the frame to feature regularly at the top level after his injury.