Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised winger Noni Madueke for his determination, discipline and commitment to improvement following the Gunners’ 1-0 victory over Hull City.
Arteta described Madueke as a good example to other players in the squad, highlighting his decision to work on his fitness and conditioning during the international break rather than take a holiday.
Speaking after the match, the Arsenal manager said Madueke travelled to Portugal to train and improve his physical condition after struggling for playing time before the first international break.
According to Arteta, the winger’s hard work helped him regain his rhythm and confidence, enabling him to make a greater impact in subsequent matches through goals, assists and his ability to take on defenders.
“He is a great example for the rest of the group because before the first international break he wasn’t playing. And what he did is instead of going on holidays he went to Portugal and got somebody to train with him and got in better shape and condition and immediately he got back into the rhythm,” Arteta said.
“You can see now he is full of confidence and trying things and getting past players and he’s impacting games with goals and assists and we are very happy with that,” he added.
Madueke played an important role in Arsenal’s victory over Hull, with his initial effort leading to the only goal of the encounter.
The winger’s shot was saved by Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis in the 72nd minute, but Martin Ødegaard reacted quickly to convert the rebound and secure all three points for Arsenal.
Madueke also came close to extending Arsenal’s lead late in the game after breaking through Hull’s defence, but Tzolakis made a challenge before the ball ricocheted off Nobel Mendy.
Hull defender Brooke Norton-Cuffy subsequently made a crucial goal-line clearance to prevent Arsenal from scoring again.
Arteta will hope Madueke maintains his impressive form and continues to contribute to Arsenal’s ambitions as the Premier League campaign progresses.