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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
TyC Sports reported earlier this week that Emiliano Martinez is in line to receive a call-up for Argentina, and he deserves to get a chance for Arsenal in the Premier League, too.
Franco Armani and Esteban Andrada are both set to miss the two upcoming friendlies for the Albiceleste against Germany and Ecuador next month due to their participation in the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores, and that could therefore mean a first selection for the 27-year-old.
However, the one thing that could count against him, of course, is that he is not a regular with the Gunners. The number one spot at the Emirates Stadium is taken up by Bernd Leno, at least in the Premier League, whilst the former Independiente man has had to make do with appearances in the Europa League and the League Cup.
But, although Leno is currently first choice, a case could be made that Martinez deserves his chance between the sticks in the league.
The Germany international, of course, has the track record. He was impressive for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, which earned him a call-up to his national side, too. But his form in England has not exactly been flawless.
Last season, he made five mistakes which led directly to goals. Only Asmir Begovic of Bournemouth made as many, and so far this season, Leno has already cost his side at least one goal. His poor save against Tottenham was an incident that will have displeased the Gunners supporters, with it leading to an easy tap-in for Christian Eriksen.
6 foot 2 Martinez, meanwhile, has performed well on both outings so far this campaign. Of course, he was rarely tested against Nottingham Forest, facing only one shot on target, but he still managed to keep a clean sheet in the process.
Against Eintracht Frankfurt in Europe, he was under far more pressure, but he stood up to the challenge. Once again, he didn’t concede, this time making seven saves along the way. His display helped his side to a 3-0 victory.
Arsenal supporters have already been calling for the shot-stopper to receive more playing time, and they could have a point. Leno may have the experience, but the performances have not always backed that up, and whenever Martinez has stepped onto the pitch recently, he has been impeccable.
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Not only has he merited his chance to play for his country – of course, their lack of depth in goal gives him a far better chance of a call-up – but he deserves to be given a run of games in north London too.