Arsenal have started this season with a bang, losing just two matches in all competitions and occupying top spot in the Premier League table for most of the campaign so far.
However, Mikel Arteta has overseen a draw against Southampton and a defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the Europa League in the club’s previous two matches over the last week.
Today’s clash against Nottingham Forest will be a wonderful opportunity to bring back that winning feeling and continue to build momentum ahead of the mid-season hiatus for the World Cup.
There were only a few players who performed to the standards that Arteta has set at Arsenal this season during the defeat to PSV.
Fabio Vieira was one, and the Spaniard should be ready to unleash the 22-year-old against the team who are bottom of the league table.
The £45k-per-week talent received a SofaScore rating of 7.4/10 for his performance against the Eredivisie side, the highest out of the Arsenal starting XI.
Taking his place on the right of a three-man attack, Vieira displayed his abilities and made two key passes, having 56 touches of the ball during the match and succeeding with his only dribble attempt, showcasing his creative ability.
He won 100% of his duels during the encounter, displaying his strength in one-on-one battles, and this is an excellent trait to have.
It was an impressive performance by the youngster despite the team failing to pull their weight overall, and he could certainly command a place in the starting XI for today’s match.
He has started just once in the Premier League this season, scoring against Brentford, while he has averaged 0.5 key passes per game. If he gets a chance in the starting XI today, Vieira could grasp it with both hands.
Former England midfielder Joe Cole has been impressed by the Portuguese gem, praising his “absolute velvet left foot” after starring against Bodo/Glimt earlier this month.
Although it has been two matches without a victory for Arsenal, Arteta shouldn’t be feeling the pressure, but a solid performance against Forest is required to regain some confidence.
The 40-year-old will likely make a host of changes for this match, although keeping Vieira in the starting XI might be a wise decision.
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