'Legend': Why Gabriel Martinelli actually thanked Ian Wright after scoring in Arsenal's win vs Crystal Palace

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Gabriel Martinelli’s form has been under scrutiny in recent weeks but he managed not to block out the outside noise and score in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory against Crystal Palace.

Martinelli showed his eye for goal by latching onto a strike from Declan Rice, opening his right foot to direct it towards goal to score the Gunners’ fourth of the day.

Recently, Paul Merson claimed Martinelli is “too predictable” and vouched for Raheem Sterling to start in his place.

Paul Scholes stated Martinelli has declined from the player he initially expected him to become.

Stephen Warnock called Martinelli out as well for his quiet displays this season. However, after Bukayo Saka was taken off after picking up an injury, the Brazilian was deployed on the right flank, where he looked lively.

After Arsenal beat Crystal Palace, Martinelli and Ian Wright shared a heartfelt exchange.

• READ MORE: Arsenal fans say they already have Bukayo Saka's replacement at N5 after injury at Crystal Palace

Gabriel Martinelli thanks Ian Wright for encouraging message after Arsenal vs Crystal Palace

Recently, Ian Wright was “angry” at Martinelli for straying offside before setting up Saka’s disallowed winning goal in his former club’s 1-1 draw against Fulham.

Wright urged Martinelli to “step up” as well.

However, Ian Wright sent an encouraging message to Martinelli behind the scenes, which the latter thanked him for after Arsenal’s latest triumph.

Wright first said on Premier League Productions during the post-match interview: “Gabi, it’s Ian, how’re you doing brother?”

Martinelli replied: “How are you, legend, you okay?”

Ian Wright said: “I’m really good, Gabs. Gabi, can I just say I’m so pleased with the way it’s working out now. You know you’re scoring a few goals now, you’re playing.”

“How does it feel to be in a place where your confidence seems to be back when you were under so much pressure just a few games ago?”

Martinelli was appreciative of Ian Wright, saying: “You have played the game, you know how tough it is to be on this side and I’d like to say thank you for the message that you sent me the other day. It means a lot to me.”

“As I said, it feels really good to score and win the game and it’s an honour, as I said to receive a message like that, the one you sent me so again thank you so much, it means a lot to me.”

Wright said: “It’s because I love you Gabs!”

Martinelli reciprocated the love: “I love you legend, thank you.”

Martinelli stats for Arsenal in 5-1 win against Crystal Palace

The former Ituano winger did not necessarily put in a vintage performance.

However, Martinelli’s showing certainly underwent a huge improvement, especially as a right-winger.

The 23-year-old’s struggles in beating his man and the number of times he lost the ball can be considered as negatives.

But Martinelli’s key passes, goal and crossing were positives.

As Saka seems to have picked up an injury that could sideline him for a while, the Arsenal wideman must pick up the slack in his possible absence.