Eberechi Eze inspires Arsenal to emphatic FA Cup victory against Wigan

It has been a testing few months for the man who scored the winner for Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final last season. But after being substituted at half‑time during the disappointing draw with Brentford on Thursday, perhaps this competition could help to breathe new life into Eberechi Eze’s Arsenal career.

He provided assists for Noni Madueke’s and Gabriel Martinelli’s goals against a Wigan side languishing in the League One relegation zone, and his swagger was back for the first time since his November hat‑trick in the north London derby. Mikel Arteta said, “That’s what I want from him,” and confirmed Martin Ødegaard picked up a knock against Brentford, adding that Arsenal’s growing injury list in attacking midfield is a concern.

With doubts over Ødegaard’s participation after he was not part of the matchday squad on Sunday, and Kai Havertz expected to miss at least four matches with a muscle injury, Eze’s return to form could be timely ahead of the rematch with Tottenham next weekend.

eberechi eze, arsenal, fa cup, wigan, noni madueke, gabriel martinelli, mikel arteta, martin ødegaard, kai havertz, brentford