This was not a great performance across the pitch from Arsenal, as our troubles away at Stoke continued with another defeat, although a few decisions from the ref did us no favours at all. A few bright sparks on a dull day were Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Hector Bellerin and Danny Welbeck, while Petr Cech had no chance on their goal but played well. However, I am going for Aaron Ramsey as our best player as he was involved in most of the attacks and was only denied a goal by a brilliant Butland block.
Cech 7 – One outstanding fingertip save and a good all round game.
Mustafi 5 – First game back and rusty as an old nail. At fault on goal and could have seen red.
Monreal 5 – Not suited to that central role, clearly. All at sea.
Kolasinac 6 – Did okay under pressure but a tough day against Jese.
Chamberlain 7 – Bright, dangerous and a real live wire but could not quite make it happen for us.
Xhaka 5 – Woeful display in the middle set the tone for the game. Passing, tackling and control all lacking.
Ramsey 7.5 – Worked his socks off and deserved batter from his team mates.
Bellerin 7 – Should have had a penalty. Gave us good width and looked a threat. Shooting needs work though.
Ozil 5 – Some flashes of brilliance but nowhere near enough. We needed his best and got a lot less.
Welbeck 7 – Tried hard and caused problems but needs to be sharper in front of goal.
Lacazette 5.5 – Poor game from our new striker but his crisp instinctive finish should have stood. Largely anonymous.
subs:
Giroud 7 – Almost an instant impact with deft flick but missed good late headed chance to level.
Walcott 5 – Little time and no impact.
Iwobi 5 – Same as Theo really.
Bob.