Mikel Arteta might hand Nicolas Pepe a surprise chance to prove himself.
The Ivorian made headlines by getting himself sent off against Leeds United for a headbutt on Ezgjan Alioski.
Pepe of course, called upon a lot of criticism upon himself after a poor display of temperament on the pitch. He did apologise on social media to his teammates, Arteta and the fans.
His three-game suspension will see him miss games against Wolves, Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley. However, Pepe is eligible to play in the Europa League and he might just do that on Thursday night against Molde.
Many would have thought that Pepe’s actions could serve a considerable period in the bleachers just as a disciplinary measure. But seeing how the Arsenal squad is blighted by injuries, Arteta might not have a choice but to start him in Norway.
Willian and Bukayo Saka picked up injuries against Leeds and the latter could be out for a considerable period. Gabriel Martinelli is still not fit to play and that leaves Pepe as the only choice out wide along with Reiss Nelson and possibly, Emile Smith-Rowe.
In hindsight, it could be a good thing for Pepe. While he has his critics, the 25-year-old also needs to learn how to shut them up. Putting your head down and performing is the only way out of this mess and he could do just that on Thursday. This is a decisive moment in his Arsenal career and fans will want to see him respond appropriately.
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