Amazingly Arsene Wenger made TEN changes to the Arsenal side that fought for 98 minutes against Burnley last weekend, but the accusation that Wenger picks schoolboys to play in the Cup competitions has been blown out of the water today. Yes there were 10 changes, but when those 10 include players like Bellerin, Walcott, Welbeck, Perez and Oxlade-Chamberlain, you can hardly say he has put out a “weakened” team.
And so it proved with the returning Walcott and Welbeck scoring 5 goals between them. And Wenger obviously had no problem with gloating over his critics after the game. “We were very dynamic, explosive and overall we had a good consistent performance over 90 minutes and everybody played well.” he said.
“Welbeck has been out for such a long time, I didn’t expect him to score straight away and it shows the desire is there.
“People say I make changes but I bring in Walcott, Welbeck and Perez, all top quality players. After that I try to find the best balance for the team.”
Okay he didn’t mention the Ox, but for me he was probably man of the match! Welbeck was awesome, Walcott was always available. Perez brilliantly set up the first goal but faded out a bit and should have made it 6 before the end. Another one I’d like to give a special mention is Ospina. He didn’t have a lot to do but he always there and ready to make the saves.
Making 10 changes may seem like Arsenal are not taking the Cup seriously. Seriously? I think that today Arsene Definitely Knew Best!
Onwards and Upwards!
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