Arsenal star back to his best form ahead of Liverpool clash | OneFootball

Arsenal returned to winning ways with a 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

The Gunners suffered their first defeat of the season at Bournemouth last weekend after William Saliba was sent off.

They redeemed themselves by beating Shakhtar, but the performance was far from impressive. Arsenal lacked a cutting edge in the final third.

Gabriel Martinelli’s effort hit the woodwork in the 29th minute before it ricocheted off the goalkeeper into the net.

Arsenal should have won the same by a bigger margin.

Leandro Trossard missed a penalty, and Arsenal’s blushes were saved by a stunning David Raya stop during stoppage time.

Martinelli was undoubtedly the standout performer. Aside from creating the goal, he was exceptional with his work rate and high pressing.

He created five chances against Shakhtar and looked back to his best after overcoming a minor injury.

Martinelli suffered an edema in his right calf on Brazil duty but looked in fine shape last night and almost induced an error from the goalkeeper.

He should be guaranteed his place on the left wing when the Gunners take on Liverpool in Sunday’s Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium.

The winger has had the better of Trent Alexander-Arnold in the past. He will relish taking on the Englishman after yesterday’s showing.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.