Arsenal fans loving Arteta ‘assist’ for Martinelli screamer after chucking ball to Saka as quick throw-in leads to goal

ARSENAL fans hailed manager Mikel Arteta after his quick thinking helped them to score a sensational goal in their 3-2 win against Watford.

The Gunners had already finished off two sumptuous moves in the first half at Vicarage Road as they overcame Cucho Hernandez's remarkable overhead kick to lead 2-1 at the break.

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But perhaps the pick of the lot came seven minutes into the second period - with the Arsenal manager given credit for starting the move.

The ball went out for a throw-in and Arteta was on hand as a makeshift ball boy.

And he had the presence of mind to swiftly get the game going again as he threw to Saka who immediately set Cedric Soares off down the right.

Cedric lofted a ball inside to Martin Odegaard and he audaciously flicked it on to Alexandre Lacazette.

Lacazette then laid it off to Gabriel Martinelli on the edge of the box and the Brazilian picked out the top corner with a wonderful finish.

It was a breathtaking move which started from the arms of their manager.

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Speaking about it after the game, Arteta said: "I saw the ball there and saw an opportunity to take an advantage.

"I don't know if I should have done it but that is the way I live the game and I couldn't help myself."

And Arsenal supporters were full of praise for the Spaniard.

Speaking on social media, one supporter said: "Mikel Arteta has more assists (1) than any other manager in the league!!"

Another added: "Arteta started the move. My manager with the pre pre pre assist."

And a third jokingly said: "Great assist from Arteta there. Excellent vision and weight to the pass."

Arsenal have now won four Premier League games in a row as they move into the box seat for Champions League qualification.

The victory sees them leapfrog West Ham and Manchester United and into the top four for the first time in two months.

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