Belgium’s press have, perhaps unsurprisingly, singled out Leandro Trossard for praise after his decisive cameo in Arsenal’s Champions League victory away to Athletic Club.
Het Belang van Limburg described the forward as a “supersub” after he came off the bench in Bilbao to change the match with an assist and a goal.
The 30-year-old, who signed an improved contract in the summer, has found starting opportunities limited, but his impact against Athletic was immediate.
Introduced midway through the second half with the score still goalless, Trossard released Gabriel Martinelli with a deft flick.
The Brazilian raced clear and finished clinically under Unai Simón. In the closing minutes the roles were reversed, Trossard drifting into space to meet Martinelli’s cut-back, his deflected effort settling the contest at 2-0.
The Belgian paper noted that the strike was his 30th for the club, adding that “he always throws himself in, even when coming on as a substitute”.
The Belgian’s influence not only secured the three points but also sharpened the debate over whether he should start Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Manchester City.
For a player who has often been asked to accept a supporting role, the recognition from home illustrates the esteem in which Trossard is held.
His ability to alter the course of a game from the bench has become one of Mikel Arteta’s most valuable resources, and Belgian media are now asking whether that deserves more of a role.