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ESPN staff 9y

Gabriel Paulista over Per Mertesacker could be key for Arsenal - Keown

Gabriel Paulista's inclusion in Arsenal's starting XI over Per Mertesacker could be a "defining moment," Martin Keown has said on BT Sport.

Gabriel was chosen over Mertesacker to face Everton instead of Mertesacker following the Gunners' disappointing 3-1 loss to Monaco in the Champions League.

The Brazilian centre-back enjoyed some impressive moments in Arsenal's 2-0 win over Everton that sent the club back into third place in the Premier League table.

Speaking before the match, Keown said that although Gunners' loss to Monaco was not solely down to Mertesacker, his exclusion on Sunday could be telling.

He said: "I don't [think] you can point the finger at one player after the Monaco game. It's a big chance for Gabriel now, though.

"I think it could be a defining moment in changing Arsenal's back four now, for sure.

"Mertesacker, with the experience he has in the game, should have been calling these young players back the other night, the two full-backs were just drifting up the pitch and not coming back.

"When he's been left isolated one-on-one he struggles due to his lack of pace too. Gabriel is keen to defend so he'll be relishing this opportunity to stamp a claim for a first-team spot."

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