0/5 dribbles, 1/8 duels won: Mikel Arteta must now drop 4/10 Arsenal star against Crystal Palace – opinion
Arsenal played out a goalless draw against Everton in the Premier League on Saturday.
The Gunners went into the game as favourites, having won five of their previous six games in all competitions.
They dominated the vast share of possession against the Toffees, but were unable to break the deadlock over 90 minutes at the Emirates Stadium.
There were some disappointing performances and we were particularly unimpressed with Gabriel Martinelli’s display.
The Brazilian star got the nod ahead of Leandro Trossard on the left wing, but he was ineffective in his 74-minute appearance.
Martinelli failed to complete any of his five dribbles. He won just one out of eight duels contested and lost possession 14 times.
The 23-year-old had a passing accuracy of 88 percent, but provided barely any threat. He made just one successful cross (1/3).
In our view, Martinelli must be dropped to the bench when Arsenal host Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-final in midweek.
He received a 4/10 rating from Goal.com for his performance.
Trossard has been the regular replacement, but his form has been equally concerning over recent games.
Raheem Sterling has been an unused substitute for a while and manager Mikel Arteta should consider giving him an opportunity.
The Chelsea loanee has only started in the Carabao Cup. He is most effective from the left and should get a chance to prove himself.
Arsenal had a brilliant start after the international break, but their league form has dipped with successful draws against Fulham and Everton.
They remain six points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
The club have struggled to capitalise on big opportunities this campaign. Yesterday was another firm example as Liverpool also dropped points against Fulham at Anfield (1-1).
Stats from Sofascore.com