Sky Sports pundit reacts to Nicolas Pepe’s display in Arsenal’s loss to Liverpool FC
Jamie Redknapp heaps praise on Nicolas Pepe following his fine display in Arsenal's 3-1 loss to Liverpool FC
Jamie Redknapp singled out Nicolas Pepe for praise for his performance in Arsenal’s 3-1 loss to Liverpool FC at Anfield on Saturday evening.
The Ivory Coast international has been settling into life at The Emirates after having signed for the Gunners from Lille earlier this month.
Pepe was a substitute in Arsenal’s first two Premier League games against Newcastle United and Burnley but was handed his first start of the season for the trip to Anfield on Saturday.
The 24-year-old looked sharp in the first half as he carved out a number of chances but was unable to find a way past Adrian in the Liverpool FC goal.
Goals from Joel Matip and two from Mohamed Salah ended up handing Liverpool FC the three points – despite Lucas Torreira’s consolation strike – and sent Arsenal crashing to their first defeat of the Premier League season.
However, former Liverpool FC star Redknapp felt that Pepe’s performance on Merseyside was one of the major positives for Unai Emery’s men from the game.
Speaking at half-time during Sky Sports‘ coverage of the game, Redknapp said: “They’ve got a special talent in Pepe. I’ve been so impressed by him.
“He’s always looking to run on the shoulder and is causing mayhem. I’ve really enjoyed his performance [in the first half].
“It’s not very often you see Andy Robertson have problems. Pepe has been breathtaking. He’s got blistering pace and lovely skill.”
He added: “If he carries on like that, he’s going to score so many goals for Arsenal. He’s got that pace that defenders hate playing against.”
Arsenal will now have to dust themselves down as they prepare for their Premier League clash against rivals Tottenham Hotspur at The Emirates next Sunday afternoon.
