Back to the Soccer Newsfeed

John Hartson Lauds 'Magnificent' Ainsley Maitland-Niles After Exceptional Europa League Display

Former Arsenal striker John Hartson has singled out Ainsley Maitland-Niles for his performance during the Gunners' successful Europa League comeback against Rennes.

Trailing by two goals from the first leg in France, Unai Emery's side overturned the deficit with a 3-0 victory that puts them through to the quarter-finals of the tournament. Maitland-Niles was particularly impressive throughout and even grabbed his first ever goal at the Emirates.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles,Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Alex Morton/GettyImages

It was a stellar showing from the full-back, who is also adept at playing in midfield and on the wing. His headed finish was just his second goal for the club and was a fitting way to cap a hugely promising display.