Many Arsenal fans were unlikely to be thrilled when they saw Reiss Nelson as the player selected to replace the injured Bukayo Saka in their Premier League match against Nottingham Forest over the weekend. But no less than an hour later, Arsenal fans were likely singing his name in unison after he grabbed two goals and an assist in a 5-0 victory.
Nelson had predominantly featured in Arsenal's Europa League campaign up to this point, although only 72 minutes of action had seen him not particularly catch the eye and his introduction in the 27th minute made it his first league appearance when he took to the field on Sunday afternoon in place of Saka.
After a quiet first 20 minutes on the pitch, Nelson exploded into life grabbing two goals in the space of three minutes, he then also set up Thomas Partey's goal and Arsenal's fourth.
READ MORE: Arsenal's best and worst-case Europa League scenario with chance to receive round of 16 bye
Despite showcasing he could fill in for Saka if needed there was understandable worry regarding the condition of Saka after he limped off, but Arteta confirmed in his pre-match Zurich press conference that the Englishman would be available.
It's possible that Saka may not be risked by Arteta even with the ramifications surrounding their final Group A match against Zurich where top spot is on the line especially with Nelson now seemingly-proving to his manager he can be trusted on the big occasion.
Arsenal, in anticipation of Thursday night, had tweeted a video of Nelson's first goal with the caption 'onto Thursday night' suggesting the 22-year-old could be involved and have since provided further reasoning for fans to expect to see Nelson from the start.
The matchday graphic posted by the club's official accounts that includes a player, which would usually allude to that player being involved in the chosen starting 11, this week features Nelson, who himself reposted the graphic on his Instagram story.
Nelson's last and only start for Arsenal this season came in the narrow 1-0 victory over Bodo/Glimt where he was replaced just before the hour mark, but with 63 minutes under his belt and undoubtedly filled with confidence, Nelson could be set to play his first 90 minutes for the club since the 3-0 win over Molde in the Europa League in 2020.
READ NEXT:
Cedric starts, Bukayo Saka recovers, Gabriel Jesus risked - Arsenal predicted XI vs FC Zurich
Saka and Zinchenko return, World Cup doubt for Europa star - Things spotted in Arsenal training
Saka, Zinchenko, Elneny: Arsenal injury news and return dates ahead of huge Europa League tie
Edu given transfer redemption to finally sign ideal Arsenal midfielder amid Barcelona discontent
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
