Arsenal forward in line for more opportunities as Arteta backs him to deliver

Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal are getting closer to seeing the best version of Noni Madueke this season.

The Gunners boss says a sustained run of games could help him reach his highest level, with the winger having started the last two matches and in line for more opportunities in the coming weeks.

“The possibility to any player to give him two or three or four games in a row, I think everybody will appreciate that because they will get more familiar with the players, more minutes, more confidence,” Arteta said.

“And if things go well, that’s the ideal thing to do with all of them.

“He had a few and he will have more minutes in the next few games.

“So I’m sure we will start to see a closer version of Noni at the highest level.”

Arteta also explained that Madueke’s recent use on the left has been driven partly by necessity, following Christos Tzolis’ injury, but believes the position suits him.

“Well, it’s down to necessities as well sometimes more than probably tactical decisions so far with him,” he said.

“But I think he can play in both positions. He offers something completely different.

“Obviously now we have the necessity of a player on the left side with different qualities than Ebere [Eze] as well.

“Like we can complement all the other units that we have on the left-hand side.

“And it’s great because he’s comfortable there. He’s enjoying playing there and he’s doing well.

“So it’s a good solution.”