Eze’s Arsenal role under scrutiny after Forest substitution

Eberechi Eze was substituted at half-time in his first Premier League start of the season as Arsenal beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 on Sunday, intensifying questions over how the forward fits into Mikel Arteta’s side. He managed nine passes and 22 touches before being taken off. [1]

The 28-year-old has scored once in nine appearances in all competitions this season. He had made a case for more playing time with a goal in a Champions League start against Lille, but did not build on that against Forest. [1]

Finding a settled role has been difficult. Eze has played on the left, where former Arsenal defender Matt Upson says he is less suited, and as a number 10 — a position occupied by captain Martin Ødegaard. Upson argues that uncertainty over Eze’s role and the intensity expected at Arsenal may be affecting his performances. [1]

Arsenal’s options have been further shaped by a hamstring injury to Christos Tzolis, who had been Arteta’s first-choice winger this season. Eze’s form has drawn added attention after the club failed to sign a new high-profile attacker in the transfer window, according to BBC Sport. [1]

There are also reasons not to write Eze off. He started 36 of Arsenal’s 63 matches last season, and BBC Sport reports that several of his per-90-minute figures this campaign — including goals and assists combined, shots on target and touches in the opposition box — are above last season’s levels, though the sample is smaller. [1]

Manager Mikel Arteta said Arsenal expected more from all their players, adding that the pressure to improve could help individuals and the team develop. Arsenal are due to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday. [1]