​Arsenal coach Arteta takes blame for Martinelli absence | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is accepting blame regarding the recent absence of youngster Gabriel Martinelli.

The youngster burst onto the scene last season with his fine goalscoring form.

He has, however, not featured as much this term.

Speaking ahead of Thursday's clash with Olympiacos, Arteta was asked why Martinelli had not been playing.

He told reporters: "No, if anything it's my fault, he has done everything perfect, he trains incredibly well every day, his attitude cannot be any better, he is disappointed he is not playing more obviously and I have spoken to him, but he needs to be a little bit patient.

"He had some minutes, he had some games as well and it's true the competition for the front positions is very tough but he needs to be patient and he will get his chance."