Club legend Robert Pires has said that Arsenal's club-record signing Nicolas Pepe needs time to 'adapt' to the Premier League.

While the Ivory Coast international has contributed two assists from three starts and three substitute outings, the 24-year-old is yet to justify his £72m price-tag.

However, despite some of his performances receiving criticism, Pires wants the Gunners supporters to remain patient with the winger.

The Frenchman told Reuters: "With Lille, he was fantastic. Last season he was one of the best players, he scored 21 or 22 goals. He's a great player.

"Now he's playing for Arsenal in the Premier League and he needs to adapt. It's so difficult, very tough. So I want to say to the fans you need to be patient with Pepe."

Pepe will hope to feature when Arsenal take on Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.