Eberechi Eze pays tribute to crucial factor after first Arsenal goal and Carabao Cup win

Arsenal attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze has paid tribute to the Gunners' support after he bagged his first goal back at the club in the 2-0 victory over Port Vale in the Carabao Cup.

After helping Mikel Arteta's side to rescue a point against Manchester City at the weekend, Eze was rewarded with a start in the third round at League One Vale. And it did not take the midfielder long to get himself on the scoresheet as he comfortably slotted the ball home after a free flowing move inside ten minutes.

Those hoping for the Gunners to run riot from there on in were sorely disappointed as the hosts managed to keep their Premier League opponents at bay while not providing much threat to Kepa Arrizabalaga's goal. Eventually, progression to the fourth round was secured when Leandro Trossard fired home in front of the travelling supporters.

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Taking to Instagram after what was clearly a proud evening for Eze, he wrote: "Love for the support! Through to the next round and first goal!

"God is great." Among those to react was Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes who posted a love heart and praying emoji in the comments.

Elaborating on his first senior goal for the club further, Eze told Sky Sports: "Very special. Something I've been working towards for a long time.

"It's a difficult place to come, solid team, it's important to get a first goal and move forwards. There is a lot of depth in the [Arsenal] squad, special players coming off the bench who can bring fresh energy."

Victory at Vale Park ensures that the Gunners have booked their place in the fourth round of the competition. Next up for them is a home tie against fellow Premier League club Brighton and Hove Albion.

Brighton have won both of their ties in the Carabao Cup 6-0 so far but shall be expecting a tougher challenge at the Emirates Stadium. The tie is scheduled to take place on the week commencing October 27.