Gabriel Martinelli shares heartwarming moment with Ian Wright after scoring against Crystal Palace as he reveals how Arsenal legend helped him after recent criticism

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli shared a heartwarming moment with Gunners legend Ian Wright after scoring against Crystal Palace.

Martinelli was on target as Mikel Arteta’s side secured a 5-1 win at Selhurst Park.

Gabriel Jesus hit a brace, with Kai Havertz and Declan Rice also finding the net.

Martinelli has faced a considerable amount of criticism for some of his performances this season.

The 23-year-old has now scored five goals for Arsenal this campaign, four of which have come in the Premier League.

Although he has had some difficulties, Martinelli made an impact against Palace after replacing the injured Bukayo Saka.

Martinelli was amongst the scorers as Arsenal managed to take all three points against Palace

One person who never lost faith in Martinelli’s ability is Wright, who scored 185 goals for Arsenal between 1991 and 1998.

Martinelli thanked Wright for sending him a message of support this week.

As reported by the Premier League, Martinelli told Wright: ‘You have played the game, you know how tough it is to be on this side, and I’d like to say thank you for the message that you sent me the other day. It means a lot to me.

‘As I said, this is really good to score and win the game and it’s an honour as I said to receive like that, the one you sent me. So again, thank you, it means a lot to me.’

With Saka having suffered a hamstring problem, Martinelli could now be set for a run of games on the right wing.

Martinelli usually plays on the left flank, where he has been competing for a starting berth with Leandro Trossard.

The winger’s hard-work and enthusiasm has never been in question but he has looked somewhat frustrated at times this season.

Martinelli will hope that the impact that he made against Palace will now provide him with a confidence boost going forwards.