2. The Return of Koscielny
The highly anticipated return of Laurent Koscielny signified how important the Frenchman is to our back four solidarity. In the win against West Brom, he played an integral part of the defensive unit that kept the likes of Sessegnon & Berahino quiet. He was responsive, showed determination and was overall solid. Koscielny’s ruthlessness in defence also illustrates his desire and commitment to his defensive duties, further boosting his credentials. Although he demonstrated some rustiness in this game after missing games through injury, his defensive show provided reassurance for the team, the manager and of course, the fans.
Seeing Nacho Monreal playing centre back alongside Mertesacker, was certainly less convincing than Koscielny playing playing besides the giant German. It could also be recognised that Mertesacker was also superb today. The chemistry between the Frenchman and the German, had reached new levels last season. This season, providing Koscielny stays fit, they should try to emulate last seasons success to cut out the brainless defensive errors made so far this season.