Mikel Arteta has hinted at a slight problem in the link-up play between Arsenal duo Gabriel Martinelli and Kieran Tierney.
Martinelli was one of the Gunners ' standout players in the side's 2-0 win against Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon, with the young Brazilian picking up a fine assist for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's goal.
The 19-year-old came back into Arteta 's plans for the clash at St. James' Park and he rewarded his manager's faith with a confident display.
But his return to the team has coincided with Tierney 's absence, with the Scotland defender having missed the last seven matches in all competitions through injury.
Now, Arteta has suggested that Martinelli is benefitting from Granit Xhaka filling in as a makeshift left-back.
Speaking after the win on Tyneside, the Arsenal boss was asked if Martinelli was looking to form a partnership with Aubameyang, and replied: "Yeah, it is a connection there.
"I think having Granit behind him helps him in a way because he’s more in the line, in the last line, on the left when he is more comfortable.
"With Kieran it’s a little bit different. Those relationships we have to feel."
Arteta was then asked about Martinelli's recent absence from the team and the Gunners manager explained there would be similar questions asked if it was another one of his attackers.
He said: "Just look at how much he’s played in the last two years and then how much he’s played with me when he’s been available. And then we can discuss that.
"But it happens. This debate is always happening when you don’t win. If it is not him, it will be someone else. If it’s not Gabi, it will be Lacazette, if it’s not him it will be Willian, or Pepe. So it’s part of it."
