Arsenal secured a much-needed three points in the Premier League as Nottingham Forest visited the Emirates.
Several Arsenal stars shone against Forest, with Bukayo Saka, Thomas Partey and Ethan Nwaneri earning the headlines.
Nwaneri netted his first Premier League goal, becoming the second-youngest Arsenal player to score in the competition.
It was a memorable day for the goalscorers and those who influenced the game, with one rarely-seen ace making his presence known.
Raheem Sterling impressed against Nottingham Forest
Late in the second half, Raheem Sterling was handed minutes against Forest, coming off the bench to replace Saka.
There were some big shoes for the 29-year-old to fill and that’s just what he did, making a goal-contributing impact in his brief cameo.
Sterling set up Nwaneri’s goal in style, showing the danger he can offer in wide areas to put the ball on a plate for the teenager.
| Raheem Sterling vs Nottingham Forest |
| 8 touches |
| 1 assist |
| 4 completed passes |
| 1 ground duel won |
| 1 tackle |
Playing only 13 minutes, the Englishman recorded eight touches on the ball, assisting with one as well as winning a ground duel.
It’s been a rather quiet start to life in North London for the Chelsea loanee however, he proved against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side that his Arsenal career must not be snubbed just yet.
Sterling has a part to play this season
The victory was crucial for Arsenal and the game had a similar feeling when it came to Sterling’s cameo.
The deadline day signing recorded his first goal contribution in the Premier League since May, when he scored for Chelsea against Bournemouth.
When Sterling was signed, there was hope that the four-time Premier League winner would bring a winners mentality to the squad, as well as being able to rediscover his form.
The 29-year-old’s ability has never been questioned given the mark he’s made during his career in the top-flight however, there are some questions to answer regarding his form.
Against Forest, the winger hinted that he’s at Arsenal for a reason, with that reason being to be able to contribute when called upon to bolster the Gunners’ title chances.
Adding depth in wide areas was essential for the North Londoners in the summer, something that Sterling has started to show he can offer.
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