Arsenal beat North London rivals 1-0 on Sunday, and as part of a new feature on Fresh Arsenal, we kicked off our player ratings system. Coming soon will be a chance for you to rate the players yourselves.
Wojciech Szczęsny – 7.5
Made some key saves, especially one following a tricky deflection from Koscielny, brilliant reflexes and showed more maturity than he has in other games this season. Clean sheet.
Carl Jenkinson – 6.5
Looked like he was in for a nightmare 15 minutes in, Chadli had the beating of him, but as the game progressed he grew in confidence and was more sharp, didn’t notice Chadli in the second half. Slow start maybe caused by the fact he wasn’t expecting to start.
Per Mertesacker – 8
Becoming a vital part of this Arsenal team. The German was essential in this win, especially winning several key headers from their route one tactic at the end, relieving us of some very present pressure.
Laurent Koscielny – 8.5
Another top quality performance from this man, possibly the best centre-half in the Premier League right now, partnership with Mertesacker is encouraging for the long season ahead.
Keiran Gibbs – 7.5
Early on Towsend cutting inside looked like he might be caught out, but Gibbs really improved as the game went on and he showed his quality both offensively and defensively. Performances have improved immensely since Monreal arrival. Competition is good.
Aaron Ramsey – 7
Becoming a key player for Arsenal. Not his best game this season but still an engine and his strength and desire against the Tottenham players proved the difference.
Jack Wilshere (off 43) – 6
Looked to be struggling with an injury / illness, defensively sound but passing wasn’t at it’s best and his explosive bursts were absent from his game. Hampered.
Theo Walcott (off 90) – 7
Perfectly timed ball for Giroud’s goal – they are developing a quality understanding. Always on the shoulder and a threat for us.
Tomas Rosicky (off 79) – 7
Not as lively as in some games recently, but was key in the winning goal and his runs and turn of pace always caused trouble, could have had an assist with more clinical finishing.
Santi Cazorla – 7.5
Santi was very effective with his passing. Two free-kicks that went extremely close – only a matter of time before he gets on the score sheet.
Olivier Giroud – 9
Possibly the best I’ve ever seen Giroud play. He was so strong, held the ball up well, went past players, good link up play and most importantly, scored the winning goal – an incredible finish too. 3 in 3 in the Premier League.
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Mathieu Flamini (on 43) – 7
Notable performance from Mathieu. Rash tackle which he will have to watch out for, but was a leader on the field and helped see out the second half where Tottenham attacked in numbers.
Nacho Monreal (on 79) – 6
Bacary Sagna (on 90) – N/A
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