After a impressive win against PSG in mid-week, Arsenal switched gears to the Premier League to host Southampton, which also served as a homecoming for former goalie, Aaron Ramsdale.
Mikel Arteta had touched on the fitness of some of his key players in his pre-match press conference, and the team selection showed that they were not deemed fit enough to feature in the contest. Without further ado, here are the Gooner Daily player ratings for Arsenal vs Southampton.
Defense
David Raya – Was relatively untested but had a nervy moment that would have led to Southampton’s equalizer. (6)
Thomas Partey – Due to the plethora of fitness concerns with the right backs, Partey played in an unorthodox position and did well. Didn’t make any marauding runs forward to support Bukayo Saka but he had some attempts on goal that was saved by Aaron Ramsdale. (7)
Gabriel – Was a constant threat from set pieces and made himself available to support the attack when Arsenal chased the game. (7)
William Saliba – Had a decent game but could have done better to close down Cameron Archer for Southampton’s goal (6)
Riccardo Calafiori – All action display from the Italian stallion still adapting to life in the Premier League. (7)
Midfield
Jorginho – Ticked along really nice in midfield and made some key passes to progress the ball. (7)
Declan Rice – Worked hard to support the team in the box-to-box role, then switched places when Mikel Merino came along. (7)
Kai Havertz – Did very well as the attacking midfielder but looked more at home when he moved to center forward. Scored the goal that sparked the comeback. (8)
Forwards
Raheem Sterling – Executed a lot of take-ons in his full Arsenal debut and supported the attack adequately. (7)
Bukayo Saka – Virtuoso performance from Arsenal’s talisman. A goal and two assists showcased his influence and dominance on the match. (10)
Gabriel Jesus – Failed to impress yet again as a center forward and was yanked off after an hour. (6)
Substitutes
Gabriel Martinelli – Showed exceptional movement to time his run perfectly for the goal that shifted to Arsenal’s favor. (7)
Leandro Trossard – Added some impetus to Arsenal’s attack following his introduction. (7)
Mikel Merino – His introduction added more dynamism to Arsenal’s midfield after he replaced Jorginho. (7)
Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jakub Kiwior – Didn’t play long enough to get ratings.
