Gabriel Martinelli: What Arsenal Star Told Arteta Before Crystal Palace Game Speaks Volume

• Arsenal beat a manager-less Crystal Palace 4-1 to move eight points clear at the top of the table
• The Gunners bounced back from their UEFA Europa League elimination in the midweek
• Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring after his midweek heartbreak

Arsenal proved their title credentials by beating Crystal Palace 4-1, quelling any thoughts of a managerial change bounce back effort by their London neighbours, who sacked Patrick Vieira days before the match.

The Gunners were eliminated from the UEFA Europa League after losing 5-3 on penalties to Sporting Lisbon after a 3-3 draw over two legs and extra time in the second leg.

Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli missed his spot kick in a heartbreaking manner, with fans questioning the state of his mind to be able to play a game three days later.

Arteta reveals Martinelli's conversation

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The 21-year-old started the game against the Eagles, opened the scoring and played 83 minutes before Hale End graduate Emile Smith-Rowe replaced him.

Head coach Mikel Arteta has now revealed the conversation he had with the player before deciding to start him during his post-match conference, quoted by Metro UK.

“The reaction he had after missing a penalty was great. There is always the question, but I asked him yesterday how he was, and he said: “I want to be in the team”.” he said.

Arteta praises Arsenal's mentality

The Spanish boss was not only in praise of Martinelli. He praised the whole team for their response to Thursday's heart-breaking elimination, as reported by Football365.

“The desire and the energy that we put in right from the beginning impressed me most. We were really determined and focused and left Thursday in the past. After playing 120 minutes, they have to come back here and do it again against a team with a lot of needs,” he said.

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Saka sets personal best record

Sports Brief earlier reported that Bukayo Saka set a personal best record after scoring twice and providing another assist in the win over Crystal Palace.

He is now enjoying his best season in the league, having scored 11 and assisted 10 goals and also became the first player in the Premier League this season to hit double figures.

His wing partnership in the league is the best, as both youngsters have contributed to over 15 goals this season, putting them in the top five of youngsters to have done so.