‘Incredible’… One Arsenal star did something ‘huge’ to ensure win v Nottingham Forest

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Arsenal secured a vital 2-1 victory away at Nottingham Forest last night, but made it much more difficult than it needed to be.

The Gunners were dominant in possession, but failed to take their chances until Gabriel Jesus forced a mistake from Matt Turner in the second half, and Bukayo Saka powered into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.

However, they set up a nervy ending as Taiwo Awoniyi pulled one back late on, and they found themselves holding onto the lead as they faced late pressure.

Arsenal managed to play themselves out of this pressure without conceding a big chance, and secured three points, and one player was particularly crucial in this.

Leandro Trossard delivered crucial performance in Nottingham Forest victory

Attacker Leandro Trossard has struggled at times in recent months, and his performances off the bench when replacing Gabriel Martinelli have often been underwhelming.

However, the 29-year-old delivered one of his best performances in a long time as he came on in the 78th minute.

Trossard completed both of his attempted dribbles, and eight of his nine attempted passes, but this does not tell the full story.

With Arsenal coming under pressure from the hosts, Trossard was the outlet who could help drive Mikel Arteta’s side further up the pitch to keep the ball away from their own box.

Whilst some of his teammates were clearing the ball into danger or turning over possession, Trossard’s experience proved crucial as he held onto the ball intelligently and helped run the clock down with his excellent movement and decision-making.

Leandro Trossard was a game-winning substitute from Mikel Arteta

Trossard’s performance has now been praised by journalist Jason Soutar, who highlighted his importance in the victory.

“Leandro Trossard was huge for us in injury time there. Incredible game management and decision making that should not go unnoticed,” he posted on X.

Although Trossard has failed to replace Martinelli’s sheer speed at times when coming off the bench, in these situations, he is at his best when he can hold onto the ball and slow the game down to his tempo, rather than attempting to run in behind or hug the touchline.

It has been a difficult few months for the Belgian, but this will hopefully be a sign that he is finding his form again.

Arsenal will now face Liverpool on Sunday in what is a huge game in the title race, and whilst it seems likely that Martinelli will start, Trossard may yet feature off the bench again.