Arteta explains SHOCK decision to drop Martinelli for Trossard ahead of Villa

Mikel Arteta has explained his shock decision to drop Gabriel Martinelli from his starting eleven to play in Saturday lunch-time's must win match against Aston Villa, with Leandro Trossard taking his place.

Martinelli has played in all of Arsenal's Premier League matches this season, proving to be an integral cog in their midfield, returning seven goals and two assists in the league this season.

He'll be replaced by January signing, Trossard, who has impressed his new coach since joining from Brighton, notably scoring his first goal for the club against Brentford two weeks ago.

Despite making a short cameo during the Gunner's 3-1 loss to Manchester City in mid week, the Arsenal boss has made several changes to his side for the match today, explaining why he brought Trossard in.

'Well it’s to give Leandro the chance he deserves in the starting XI,' he said. 'He’s been impacting the team every time he’s been on the field and we needed some changes and energy as well in the front line.

More to follow...