Sky Sports commentator Gary Neville was among the most vocal of critics, and the travelling Arsenal supporters certainly let their feelings about the former Manchester United defender's comments be known after Martinelli's hat-trick goal. It was Bishop’s first goal since August, and raised the decibel level inside Fratton Park even higher. Arsenal should have had the tie dead and buried by half-time but somehow went in with just a goal advantage. Martinelli was not going to miss a third big chance to grab a second, sliding in to finish from a fine pass by fellow Brazilian Gabriel Jesus. There was another welcome sight for Arsenal fans late on, with Kai Havertz coming off the bench for his first appearance since August having been sidelined with a knee injury.

Source: Irish Examiner January 11, 2026 16:15 UTC