Arsenal Vs Porstmouth: 5 things we learned – The future is bright

1. This is why Mikel Arteta believes in Reiss Nelson

While many of the young players at Arsenal have flourished in recent weeks, breaking into the first team and proving that they are capable of performing at the highest level, Reiss Nelson has endured yet another frustrating year, largely due to repeated niggling injuries robbing him of any momentum.

But when Mikel Arteta arrived at the club, he went out of his way to declare how much he believed in Nelson’s ability. The youngster started Arteta’s first two games in charge, there was that famous picture of Arteta with his arm around Nelson like Pep Guardiola used to do with Raheem Sterling, and it seemed as though Nelson was ready to respond and grow. Then, typically, he suffered another injury.

This was his return from injury, and he showed exactly why Arteta believed — and likely still believes — in his ability. Direct with the ball, he skipped by defenders with ease. His delivery was excellent, playing two beautiful crosses for the two goals. He also held onto the ball at times to ease pressure, his touch was superb in tight spaces, and he helped shuttle Arsenal up the pitch with neat dribbling skills.

Nelson was the best player on the pitch. And he showed precisely why there is hope for his future yet, even after a tumultuous season thus far.