Mikel Arteta Promised To Support Nicolas Pepe Following Player's Dismissal Against Leeds United

 

Mikel Arteta has declared his commitment to Nicolas Pepe who was dismissed during Arsenal's goalless draw against Leeds United on Sunday. The Spaniard promised the offense will not have any negative impact on his career at the club. 

Though the team boss described the Frenchman's offense as "unacceptable" for headbutting Ezgjan Alioski, he yet has the winger in the team's lineup against Molde in the Europa League group stage match on Thursday. 

"He had a really good reaction, the way he apologized, the way he understood his responsibility," said Arteta. "Hopefully tomorrow we can see the player that we want to see and have a good reaction to help his team."

Gunners have remained unbeaten in Europa League Group B and are in the lead with nine points followed in the second place by Molde. 

Speaking of the impact that would have on the player's career at the club, Arteta added: "No, it's absolutely not (the end for him). It's not about that and I don't like that type of statement. I will give Nico my support all the time. He knows where he has to improve and we all know his qualities."

Arsenal could have made away at Leeds but Busayo Saka wasted the chance following a fast break and Leeds' Rodrigo shot at the goal clipped the crossbar and bounced off to safety.