Kembali
Noni Madueke may not be a regular starter at Arsenal, but his winning goal against Nottingham Forest showed why Mikel Arteta values his impact off the bench.
The England international came on at half-time before cutting inside and firing a deflected effort into the net in the 80th minute to secure a key 1-0 victory and three points in Arsenal's Premier League title defence.
Madueke has started just one league game this season, but has impressed in recent appearances also assisting the opening goal in Tuesday's Champions League win over Lille. With Christos Tzolis side lined by a hamstring injury, the 24-year-old has an opportunity to stake his claim for a more regular starting role.
Despite questions over his consistency and end product, Madueke offers Arsenal directness and quality in one on one situations. Arteta has praised his character and recent performances, saying he is showing 'another level of conviction' and becoming more decisive in matches.
The Gunners' substitutes have contributed to 26 Premier League goals since the start of last season, more than any other side. For Arteta, they are not simply substitutes but 'finishers,' players capable of changing games when it matters most.