Mikel Arteta has launched a staunch defence of Nicolas Pepe, claiming the Arsenal forward is “suffering” after the latest bout of negativity regarding his attitude.
The former Lille striker has been a lightning rod for criticism ever since his £72million move from the French club last summer.
Arteta has rotated Pepe in and out of his starting XI this season, with his fortunes not helped by a petulant red card against Leeds.
The 25-year-old scored Arsenal’s only goal in their most recent defeat – their eighth of the season – against Everton at Goodison Park.
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