Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has praised Alexandre Lacazette for his recent form.

The ex-Gunner believes the Frenchman is fully committed to the club and his standout displays against the likes of Chelsea and Cardiff recently are a testament to that:

“Arsenal fans absolutely love a prolific centre-forward, especially when he has a close attachment to the club. And I think that’s true just now of Alexandre Lacazette, a character who seems to genuinely care for the fortunes of his employer.”

“Yes, plenty passionately kiss the badge before angling for a move. Plenty go through the motions to garner support. But Lacazette does most of his talking with clever feet forcefully backed up by fierce determination…”

“Lacazette doesn’t need many invitations just now. Arsenal’s latest No9 is doing the shirt proud.”

The partnership between Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang up front has certainly proved very fruitful.

The switch to a diamond formation in midfield has allowed both to play more centrally, which has helped the Frenchman increase his goal tally for the season.

Lacazette currently has nine goals in 23 league appearances, with 11 in all competitions. He’s currently on course to surpass the 17 he scored last campaign.

It will be interesting to see if manager Unai Emery opts to keep Lacazette partnered with Aubameyang for their trip to face Manchester City today.

The Citizens will no doubt put the Gunners under pressure defensively, and the temptation would be to revert to one up front.