Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for conceding the chance to score his hat-trick against Stoke, handing a late penalty to out-of-form teammate Alexandre Lacazette.
The Gunners clinched an important 3-0 win against Stoke this afternoon, with Aubameyang netting a brace and Lacazette converting late on at the Emirates.
Gabon international Aubameyang looked all but set to find the net with a late penalty, which would complete his first hat-trick in Arsenal colours. However, he opted to give Lacazette the chance to net following his return from injury and the Frenchman duly delivered.
Wenger, as quoted by Goal, discussed Aubameyang’s decision to let Lacazette take the spot kick and was full of praise for the striker’s decision.
That shows as well the state of our society, that we are surprised. I like that [gesture], it can only make the team stronger.
The Gunners will be forced to cope without Aubameyang for their Europa League tie with CSKA Moscow on Thursday, however. He is cup-tied due to his participation in European competition with Borussia Dortmund.
Aubameyang has scored five goals in his first six Premier League outings.
