Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has taken responsibility for Gabriel Martinelli's recent struggles at the club.
The 19-year-old forward looked like one of the most promising young prospects in the country last season as he scored ten goals in all competition in his breakthrough campaign for the Gunners.
But he suffered a serious knee injury in June which ruled him out until December, and since returning to action he has yet to complete 90 minutes, and has largely had to settle for cameo appearances off the bench.
Speaking ahead of his side's Europa League last-16 second leg against Olympiacos, Arteta was asked whether Martinelli was to blame for his lack of minutes.
But he replied: "No if anything it’s my fault. He’s done everything perfect.
"His attitude cannot be any better. He needs to be a little bit patient and he will get his chance."
Arteta was also questioned on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who was dropped to the bench for the North London Derby win against Tottenham on Sunday after turning up late for a team meeting.
It is believed the stat forward was left furious, and some have suggested the situation may have damaged his relationship with Arteta.
But the Spaniard insisted he considers the matter over, adding: "We talked. Everything has been resolved in a really positive way and we move forward."
The Gunners go into Thursday's game with a commanding 3-1 lead over Olympiacos as they look to get the job done with a minimal amount of fuss.
But Arteta has warned against complacency, and insisted the tie was far from over.
"From what I've seen from Olympiacos and the amount of games they've won in the final minutes it will be tough," he continued.
"They will try to put us under a lot of pressure so there's still a lot to play for."
