3 standout Arsenal players from 2-1 victory over Fulham

  • Bukayo Saka returned and inspired Arsenal to three precious Premier League points.
  • Saka was helped by a fellow winger regaining some of his best form.
  • Arsenal's latest star from the academy continued to catch the eye.
Arsenal FC v Fulham FC - Premier League
Arsenal FC v Fulham FC - Premier League | Harry Murphy - Danehouse/GettyImages
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3. Ethan Nwaneri

Ethan Nwaneri, Emile Smith Rowe
Nwaneri continued his upward surge as the academy project Arteta likes. | Shaun Botterill/GettyImages

A smart pull-back to tee up Merino put a flourish on the endeavour and skill Nwaneri used to enliven an otherwise dull opening 45 minutes. His impish flair and clever feet consistently tied Fulham defenders in knots.

Being gifted with both feet is part of what makes Nwaneri so effective on the flanks, but things are changing. The change is sparked by having Saka back and Martinelli starting to look more like himself, but this is a good problem for Arteta and the Gunners.

Nwaneri's ambidexterity on the deck can also make him an asset in central areas. Think about Santi Cazorla as the perfect template.

Like Cazorla, Nwaneri is another player blessed with close control, a low center of gravity and deceptive play strength. Those qualities regularly enabled Cazorla to twist and turn out of trouble and bypass opposition players in tight spaces.

Nwaneri can do the same, and if he refines and expands his passing radar, the 18-year-old will be a natural playmaker. In the meantime, Arsenal can be content with Nwaneri being able to impact matches from either wing.

His ability to do just that should keep him out wide against Everton on Saturday, while Arteta continues to slowly increase Saka's minutes before THAT visit from Real.


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