Pain in the Arsenal
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Arsenal Vs Vitoria SC: 5 things we learned – Nicolas Pepe papers over cracks

By Andrew Dowdeswell

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 24: Nicolas Pepe of Arsenal scores his team's second goal during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Arsenal FC and Vitoria Guimaraes at Emirates Stadium on October 24, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 24: Nicolas Pepe of Arsenal scores his team's second goal during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Arsenal FC and Vitoria Guimaraes at Emirates Stadium on October 24, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 24: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal battles for possession with Victor Garcia and Mikel Agu of Vitoria Guimaraes during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Arsenal FC and Vitoria Guimaraes at Emirates Stadium on October 24, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 24: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal battles for possession with Victor Garcia and Mikel Agu of Vitoria Guimaraes during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Arsenal FC and Vitoria Guimaraes at Emirates Stadium on October 24, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images) /

4. Smith Rowe, Martinelli bright

Not many Arsenal players played particularly well on Thursday night, but if any are deserving of special recognition, bar Nicolas Pepe and his game-saving achievements, it is Gabriel Martinelli and Emile Smith Rowe, the two most vibrant and potent attacking players for much of the game.

Martinelli scored the first goal with his third header of the season. He now has five goals in three starts in all competitions. He was a livewire throughout, especially when moved into a central position, and his nose for danger was evident, the off-ball movement fabulous to watch as he searches out space in and around the penalty area.

Smith Rowe, meanwhile, was tidy in possession and direct when dribbling. His first touch was superb all night, always aware of how he could manipulate it to best position himself to move forwards. He should have scored midway through the second half but his overall attacking play was very encouraging. More of the same, please.