Is Wenger right to sub his new star so often?

Alexandre Lacazette has been substituted in 14 of his 17 starts this season.

You could forgive the Frenchman for nervously looking over to the bench whenever the play clock goes beyond the 65th minute mark.

The former Lyon striker has enjoyed a steady start to life in north London. He’s netted eight league goals this season, but many believe his tally would be far greater if Arsene Wenger wasn’t so trigger happy to hook him in the latter stages of matches.

Before moving to the Emirates, Lacazette probably did not envisage a season which would see him predominantly out of the spotlight. The £52 million club record signing has got his head down, while rumours of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez futures continue to distract supporters and pundits.

Lacazette has assisted three times this season.

However, the frustrations of the Frenchman being subbed week after week are beginning to be noticed. He is now visibly seen in a sulk and once even tossed his gloves when he was in front the boss.

It’s now seven matches since he last scored for the Gunners, but thankfully the 26 year-old has showcased that he is so much more than just a finisher.

His link up play in recent weeks has been sublime and taking him off may just be Wenger’s way of protecting the striker. However, Lacazette would argue that his best chance of getting on the scoresheet is in the closing stages of matches, while the opposition is fatigued and with him ready to pounce.

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