Mikel Arteta has called on the Arsenal players to step up in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s absence.
The Gabon international is facing a three-match ban after his red card challenge on Max Meyer last weekend.
It was his first direct sending-off in his career after the referee looked at the incident through VAR. Arsenal managed to draw 1-1 Crystal Palace, owing the loss of all three points to going one man down in the fixture.
Aubameyang is the best player in this Gunners side, scoring 14 goals in the Premier League this season. Without him, there isn’t a consistent scoring outlet. When asked about the responsibilities on other players, Arteta said, “They now have to make a step forward now he is not able to contribute to the team with goals.
“Someone else has to do it and I want to see that reaction too.”
“Losing probably the most important player is never nice,” Arteta said. “We have other players that can play in that position. We will try to find a way and be as competitive as possible.”
With Aubameyang missing three crucial ties, Arteta was asked if the decision would be changed on outgoing striker, Eddie Nketiah. The Spaniard replied, “I think we have to think long term with Eddie.
“We have to respect his evolution, his development and we don’t have to make decisions just based on two or three games.”
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