Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has put his faith in 32-year old Brazilian winger Willian, saying he can shine at the club.
Since assisting two of Arsenal's three goals in a 3-0 win away at Fulham on debut, the Brazilian has been less than impressive – and has played a full 90 minutes just once.
Indeed, in his eight games since thrashing Fulham, the summer signing has not added to his assist tally and is yet to score his first goal for the club.
Another great team goal for Mikel Arteta's @Arsenal ?
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) September 12, 2020
Passing from front to back, captain Aubameyang with a sublime finish ? pic.twitter.com/732lVRDbJG
Nicolas Pepe, a rival for the same position in the line up, has enjoyed a decent start to the campaign, having scored three and assisted two in the Premier League and Europa League so far – but Arteta has come out in support of the veteran forward.
Quoted by Goal, Arteta said: "He's getting better and better and we all know the quality that he has, and he's a great option to have on the pitch."
The Brazilian is also the club's second highest earner, reportedly on £220,000 a week, including bonuses. His recent form has left the Arsenal faithful debating his worth to the club and why Arteta continues to start him.
I’d rather watch Pepe try to make things happen for 80mins than Willian do absolutely nothing
— . (@BodegaaCat) November 5, 2020
However, the Arsenal boss rebuffed the concerns, claiming: "He's a player who can make a difference, he's got the ability to find that last action to open the door when everything's really tight."
November hasn't got easy tests in store for the Gunners, however. They host Aston Villa on Sunday night, while away trips to Leeds and Molde are followed by a home tie against Wolves after the international break.
Source : 90min