Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes having supporters in stadiums will lift striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The Gabon forward has struggled to find his best form over the past 12 months, with some reports even suggesting he may be sold this summer.

However, Arteta was delighted with Aubameyang after he scored a hat-trick in a 6-0 Carabao Cup second round thumping of Championship side West Brom.

Asked if fans being back will help Auba, Arteta told reporters, per Goal.com: "I hope they do.

"Obviously he is a really happy character and he needs that connection with people; with family, with friends, with fans.

"You could see the interaction when he left the pitch and I think that is something really positive for him, yes."

"When you lose a game, as quick as possible you have to win," added Arteta.

"Today's game is going to give us some confidence. We had players who played some first minutes.

"Auba, after his covid, to get some minutes and score three goals for his confidence is going to be great. Overall I think a really positive night."