Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was left out of Arsenal's side to face Southampton because his manager is concerned about the forward playing twice in four days.
The Gabonese has 15 top flight goals to his name this season, watched on from the sidelines as his team took a 2-0 lead into half-time.
The 29-year-old sat out while Alexandre Lacazette got the nod and also got a goal.
He was suspended for Arsenal’s Europa League clash with BATE Borisov on Thursday evening which forced Aubameyang to play 90 minutes of the second leg tie.
Emery told Sky Sports that the decision would help avoid burn out.
"We needed fresh players with energy today and quality," he said.
"They are a very physical team, organised and are going to work hard against us.
"We need to start with a team which is fresh and has energy," added the manager ahead of the game with the Saints.
"We want to continue being consistent, and with a big intensity and aggressiveness like Thursday."
Arsenal's next match is at home to AFC Bournemouth on Wednesday night.
No comments:
Post a Comment