Portsmouth 0-2 Arsenal: 3 standout performers | FA Cup 2019-20

#2 Reiss Nelson

Reiss Nelson made a successful return from injury tonight

After a relatively successful loan spell at Hoffenheim last season, Reiss Nelson has been trusted with a first-team spot this season. Both Unai Emery and Freddie Ljungberg deemed Nelson good enough for the first team.

It looked as though Arteta shared that sentiment, starting him over record signing Nicolas Pepe on several occasions, before the run was cut short by a devastating hamstring injury. But tonight, the 20-year-old looked close to his dazzling best.

Up on the right-hand side, Nelson regularly dribbled past players whilst providing delicious deliveries into the box. Both of Arsenal’s goals came through the workings of Nelson.

The 20-year-old was by far and away Arsenal’s most dangerous outlet, forcing Portsmouth’s LB back into his own half. Before being substituted for Ainsley Maitland-Niles, the winger provided 2 assists, took 9 corners, created 4 chances, completed 27 passes and attempted 1 shot on target.

Nelson proved to Arteta that he was right to show such faith in him before his injury.