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Alexandre Lacazette, Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Martinelli must STEP UP after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's departure, insists Alan Smith... with ex-Arsenal star urging Mikel Arteta to use the Brazilian in a central role

Former Arsenal forward Alan Smith has called on three players to come to the fore for the Gunners this season following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's departure.

The Gabon striker had his £350,000-a-week contract terminated earlier this week and joined Barcelona on a free transfer following a falling-out with manager Mikel Arteta.

With no direct replacement up front brought in, Smith says Alexandre Lacazette, Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Martinelli must now step up for the rest of the season as Arsenal target a place in the top-four.

Former Arsenal forward Alan Smith has called on three players to come to the fore for the Gunners this season following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's departure
The Gabon striker had his u00a3350,000-a-week contract terminated earlier this week and joined Barcelona on a free transfer

Former Arsenal forward Alan Smith (left) has called on three players to come to the fore for the Gunners this season following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's (right) departure

Smith says the likes of Eddie Nketiah need to now step up for Mikel Arteta's side this season

‘It should be a chance for Eddie Nketiah.