Arsenal edged closer to UEFA Champions League Group Phase knockout qualification with a victory over Monaco last night. In the match preview, there was the concern around the defenders that were stricken with injury, so the team selection was quite interesting, especially with the deficiencies at left back.
Defense
David Raya – Was relatively untested but did very well with his distribution. (6)
Thomas Partey – Didn’t support much in attack but was amazing in protecting the defensive line from the right. (7)
Jakub Kiwior – Did okay in defense and had that amazing punt for Gabriel Jesus that was spurned. (7)
William Saliba – Had a decent game by his fair standards, keeping Monaco strikers at bay. (7)
Myles Lewis-Skelly – Had an amazing display of close control in tight spaces and staked a good claim for a consistent berth. (8)
Midfield
Mikel Merino – 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 anchor but looked a bit jaded. (7)
Martin Odegaard – Fired a lot of shots and was very profligate. (7)
Forwards
Gabriel Martinelli – Executed a lot of take-ons but lacked incisiveness when required. (7)
Bukayo Saka – Virtuoso performance from Arsenal’s talisman. A two goals and an assist 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 73 minutes. (6)
Substitutes
Jurrien Timber – Added solidity to the left hand side of defense after his introduction. (7)
Leandro Trossard – Added some impetus to the Arsenal attack following his introduction. (7)
Jorginho – Brought his experience to the fore after replacing Rice. (7)
Kai Havertz – Did well to nick in a goal from a Saka assist. (7)
Ethan Nwaneri – Made the best of the cameo and almost extending the scoring. (7)
