Former England international Michael Owen believes Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe’s form since arriving at the Emirates is a major concern, considering the club broke their transfer record to sign him.

The 24-year-old’s £72m move from Lille in the summer was hailed as a major coup at the time, but the Ivorian international has flattered to deceive so far. Owen still thinks Pepe will come good, though, as he rates the player:

“I think that’s the only big worry I think for Arsenal at the moment. Things are going pretty well, in the league they are chugging along, in Europe they’re doing fine.”

“But [Pepe] was a massive outlay, you’re expecting or almost wanting a guarantee of performance for that type of money. It hasn’t happened yet but we all saw him in France, he’s a terrific player.”

Adapting to a new league can take time but it must be that Pepe has not really lived up to expectations up until now. He did create the goal for David Luiz to score the winner against Bournemouth last weekend, but his one penalty and three assists in 10 appearances so far is not the type of return supporters are looking for.

Patience may be needed for Gunners fans to see the best of him and they will be hoping to see improvement as the season goes on.