Eze rediscovers swagger in commanding Arsenal win

It has been a testing few months for the man who scored the winner for Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final last season.

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Gabriel Martinelli scores the second goal in Arsenal's rout of Wigan

(PETER CZIBORRA/ACTION IMAGES/REUTERS)

But after being substituted at halftime during the disappointing draw with Brentford on Thursday, perhaps this competition could help to breathe new life into Eberechi Eze’s Arsenal career.

As well as providing assists for Noni Madueke’s and Gabriel Martinelli’s goals - albeit against a poor Wigan side languishing in the League One relegation zone - the England midfielder’s swagger was back for the first time since his hat-trick in the north London derby in November.

With doubts over the participation of Martin @degaard against Wolves on Wednesday after the captain was not part of the matchday squad yesterday, and with Kai Havertz expected to miss at least four matches with a muscle injury, it could be a timely return to form for Eze before the rematch with Tottenham next weekend.

“That’s what I want from him,” said Mikel Arteta, who confirmed @degaard picked up a knock against Brentford and admitted Arsenal’s growing injury list in attacking midfield is a concern. “We are still coping with that, but we need some players back and fit to give us not only numbers but different options in relation to the opponents that we have. The quicker the better.”