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Football London
Football London
Sport
Chris Davison

Alexandre Lacazette repays fan support leaving Mikel Arteta and Edu with tricky transfer call

"And he goes by the name of Lacazette" was the chant Arsenal fans sang with gusto as the striker left the pitch after being substituted during the 2-0 win over Leicester yesterday.

The Frenchman didn't get on the scoresheet but played an important role once again with his work rate and impressive link-up play proving vital in the Gunner's inspiring first-half display.

Since coming back into the mix two weeks ago, the 30-year-old has had a positive impact on his team's performances. Lacazette rescued a point for Arsenal in the dramatic 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace after scoring a late equaliser, before helping the side defeat Aston Villa in convincing fashion.

For the most part, Lacazette has enjoyed a relatively successful time in north London, scoring 68 goals in 178 appearances and winning an FA Cup under Mikel Arteta. Unfortunately, it hasn't always been plane sailing.

Although he is someone who put's in 110%, links up well with others and is known for his strong hold-up play abilities, Lacazette's lack of goals in the league has often been criticised.

Despite being here for five seasons, the forward has failed to score more than 14 Premier League goals in a single season. This left many suggesting his £50 million price tag was unjustified.

As is the case for most strikers in football, Laca has also gone through dry patches and had games to forget whilst in the famous red and white. However, he has always found a way through it.

Alexandre Lacazette only has six months left on his Arsenal deal but that hasn't stopped him from performing well when selected. (Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Most recently, Lacazette's professionalism has worked in both his and Arteta's favour at what was a crucial time for the Spaniard. The team lacked enthusiasm and attacking threats going forward at times, leading to understandable concern amongst the fanbase.

When Arteta's side found themselves in desperate need of a goal against the Eagles, it was Lacazette who changed the game as soon as he entered the frame. Since then, he's started the following two league games, both of which Arsenal have won.

With just six months remaining on his contract in addition to being a regular on the bench so far this season, it would have been easy for Lacazette's attitude to drop off, but that hasn't been the case at all.

He has played well when called upon and helped ease the attacking worries that were appearing a few weeks ago. The supporters seem to appreciate his efforts as yesterday's reception proves, but his praises have also been sung by a former Arsenal player.

Speaking on BT Sport, Martin Keown said: "He comes on against Palace in a game where Arsenal were a bit flat - second best really - and he raised the tempo with his build-up play, his opportunism from distance. He’s got everything in his game and I’ve heard that the youngsters love having him around.

"He lifted the crowd. Right place at the right time, look what it means to him. I just feel like you need that drive and maturity in the team."

It's clear to see Lacazette can still play a key role at the Emirates and his aura will have Arteta and Edu thinking carefully.

Follow our new Arsenal Fan Brands Writer Chris Davison on Twitter to get involved in the discussion and give us your thoughts in the comments section below.

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