Why Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was excluded from the Arsenal team against Southampton

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was left Arsenal away to face Southampton as his manager is concerned that the attacker plays twice in four days.

He left the striker – the Gunners' top scorer – on the bench for the crucial Premier League game on Sunday.

Aubameyang, who has 15 goals in the first division this season, watched aside as his team took a 2-0 lead in halftime.

The 29-year-old Alexandre Lacazette was inclined and also scored a goal.

He was suspended Thursday night because of his clash between Europa League and Arsenal, forcing Aubameyang to play 90 minutes for the second leg.

Arsenal knows that three points could be enough to place them in the first four places while they pursue football in the Champions League.

Emery told Sky Sports that this decision would help prevent burnout.

"We needed new players with energy and quality today," he said.

"It's a very physical, organized team that will work hard against us.

"We have to start with a fresh and energetic team," added the manager before the match with the Saints.

"We want to continue to be consistent, and with great intensity and aggressiveness like Thursday."

The next Arsenal match is at home against AFC Bournemouth on Wednesday night.