3 Arsenal players crucial to Premier League top four charge

3. Nicolas Pepe

When compared to all transfers in Arsenal history, you would be hard-pressed to find one as poorly judged as the record-breaking transfer from Lille. A world-class player in France – albeit only for one breakout season – he has not been able to string together even a handful of decent performances in the red and white.

Inconsistency and a style that doesn’t quite fit the possession-based and positional system installed by Mikel Arteta had found him languishing on the sideline.

His games away at AFCON, however, have seen him burst into life. two goals and an assist in three groups games was an impressive return, made that much more impressive by his lack of game time. On his day, he can exceptional. There was greater security in possession from Pepe over in Cameroon. Quick off the mark, what he adds in and around the box is crucial: he is clinical in front of goal.

Although his dribbling and pace is a huge asset, his ability to drive forward has waxed and waned. But his striking ability and technique has always been present. Given Bukayo Saka’s fatigue and soreness from being kicked endlessly, Pepe’s introduction into the side may just be the spark the attacking players need. With only one goal scored for Arsenal this calendar year, he could hardly do worse (famous last words?). It is past time to bring Pepe in from the cold, allow Saka a much- needed rest when possible, and freshen up the attack in certain game states.

Due to the outgoings over the summer and even this month, Arsenal have a smaller squad, commensurate with no European football. While the group is bonded closer together, Arteta has fewer options to turn to when the team is stuck in the rut as it is now. The window winds down and barring any surprise signings, he will largely have the same team for the second half of the season. It is crucial that he is uses the players he has to inspire and revitalize not just the team, but the entire club.