Sometimes all that matters is the actual result and considering the turmoil Arsenal have been in since the draw with Watford last Sunday, a win was all that was required right now.
Was it perfect against Frankfurt? Of course it was not and the result does mask the issues that are clearly still there but regardless, there were positives last night and we should acknowledge them.
Martinez is a quality keeper
Whether he has put Bernd Leno under any real pressure I do not know, only Unai Emery knows that but it is clear and not just because of last night that Arsenal does have a quality back up keeper and if there is one position we do not need to worry about, it is the goalkeeping position.
Youngsters are progressing very well
None of the youngsters, including Bukayo Saka, had an error-free game, he, Willock and Smith Rowe all missed great opportunities, lost the ball at key moments, missed great passing opportunities etc. but they also showed that they are highly talented, are comfortable on the big stage and have great careers ahead of them. All three had good games.
Mustafi and Luiz did a good job
The defence has been highly criticised and rightfully so and two players, in particular, Mustafi and Luiz, have been the brunt of the fiercest criticism from fans and pundits alike, well, last night they stood very strong, it was not a quiet game for either defender and they deserve to be told, you did your jobs well. If only they could be more consistent.
Arsenal showed flexibility from the back
I do not know why this happened but I did notice last night that Martinez did not always do the short ball, when it was required or the better option he hoofed it upfield or did a quick throw-out. That works and it showed that Arsenal can adopt a degree of flexibility when it is required, let’s hope that is the case going forward.