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Arsenal news: Martin Keown singles out 'brave' star after Man City defeat
ARSENAL youngster Matteo Guendouzi was 'brave' during his debut against Manchester City, according to club legend Martin Keown.
Guendouzi was 'brave' during Man City debut says Martin Keown
The 19-year-old joined Arsenal from Lorient this summer after two years of thriving in the French side's first-team.
Upon arrival at the Emirates, Guendouzi was expected to play a bit-part role in Unai Emery's side this season, especially after the arrival of fellow midfielder Lucas Torreira.
However, a solid pre-season saw the midfielder used from the outset against the Premier League champions Manchester City on Sunday.
Guendouzi was criticised for his defending for Raheem Sterling's opener, and made some mistakes throughout the 2-0 defeat.
I thought he was quite brave
However, his eagerness to get on the ball has excited former Gunner Keown.
"Guendouzi, the 19-year-old midfield player, was playing in there [defence] at times," he said on Match of the Day 2.
"I thought he was quite brave.
"Things weren't going well for him at times.
"But he showed a good energy and he showed he had good character that you need at times."
Arsenal were comfortably beaten by Pep Guardiola's side at the Emirates.
But there were signs that the north London outfit were adapting to Emery's new style of play.
And Keown admits it will take time for the new system to take effect.
"It is [going to take patience] because it's about turning around 22 years of Arsene Wenger" he added.
"Look, they used to pass the ball out from the back but not to that extent."
Emery admitted after the game he wasn't happy with his side's performance in the first-half.
However, the Spaniard seems confident his new team will soon progress under his leadership.
"The first half we didn't play like we wanted," he said.
"We spoke at half-time about taking more responsibility for the second half, to do a little more.
“We wanted to build with the ball and break their lines.
"I think in the second half we played more like we want."