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Mikel Arteta praised Nicolás Pepe’s performance after the Ivory Coast star scored the decisive goal in Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Sheffield United on Sunday.
The Gunners struggled to break through Chris Wilder’s stubborn side during an austere first half, but effectively sealed three points with two goals in the space of three minutes just past the hour mark.
Bukayo Saka capped his perfect week, with the England rookie heading home at the far post after a clever play involving Mohamed Elneny, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Hector Bellerin.
Pepe doubled Arsenal’s lead moments later, grabbing a pass from Bellerin, outscoring his marker and displaying superb composure to beat Aaron Ramsdale with a precise low shot that went inside the far post.
The 25-year-old has struggled to justify his £ 72 million transfer fee after his move last summer and has yet to start a Premier League match this season.
However, after an impressive second-half cameo as a substitute against the Blades, Arteta is confident Pepe will make a big impact this period, but cautioned that he must add consistency to his game if he wants to secure a regular spot at the start.
“I am very happy, first of all for him and also for the contribution he made to the team,” he said.
“When this type of player is not playing, they are obviously not happy, but I required them on the day to be fully focused and determined to make an impact when they have the opportunity to play, and that is exactly what he has done.
“I think it’s one more step for him, he’s capable of doing it, but he needs to do it consistently.
“This is the demand we are going to put on him, but I’m delighted that he did it and that he helped the team a lot today to get the points.”
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