Arsenal may not have been at their very best at Watford, but they showed some resilience to gain their fourth away win in a row and finally make it back into the Champions League positions.
There were some brilliant performances and some off days, so here are my player ratings for Watford v Arsenal
Ramsdale – 6
Aaron was not his usual assured self and even his clearances went awry at times. Hopefully just a blip…
Cedric – 7
Played a usual solid game but with the occasional brain fart
White – 7
Ben was mostly okay but, like Ramsdale, seems a little more nervous than usual. He even joined the attack a couple of times.
Gabriel – 6
Not as solid as usual but was not awful and didn’t cost us any goals
Tierney – 6
Has had a lot of stick lately and still not back to his very best.
Partey – 7
Controlled midfield well, and it looks like his team-mates were lining him up for long shots but still can’t hit the target…
Xhaka – 6
Seemed to be mostly anonymous in a packed midfield, but didn’t make any massive errors
Saka – 9
I love the way he has learnt to shrug off opponents to take the ball. An all-round masterclass from our star youngster.
Odegaard – 8
The Norwegian seems to be improving every week. He is our engine room now and his understanding with Saka is telepathic…
Martinelli – 6
Didn’t get as much freedom and couldn’t impose himself, but got the goal which will bost his confidence
Lacazette – 8
Laca runs his socks off and has become much more of an unselfish provider rather than a Number 9. He shouldn’t be judged on his goal tally.
Subs:
Pepe – 5
Every minute on the pitch counts but not enough today to make a difference
Nketiah – 5
His attempt on goal was a bit hopeful, but at least he hit the post
Holding – N/A.