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Martinelli makes injury return in Arsenal U21 match for first appearance in nine months

Gabriel Martinelli has given Arsenal a very welcome attacking boost after he returned to competitive action following nine months out injured.

The Brazilian striker played for the Gunners' Under-21 side on Tuesday night in their Papa John's Trophy clash with AFC Wimbledon. He started the game and played 45 minutes before being withdrawn at half-time.

Arsenal U21 went on to lose the game 3-0 to their League One opponents and ended the game with nine men after Tim Akinola and William Saliba were sent off in the final few minutes.

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Martinelli has been out of action since March after suffering a serious knee injury in training, just as the 19-year-old was establishing himself as an important first-team player in Mikel Arteta's side.