Arsenal must correct problem areas or face missing out on top-four
It is easy to get carried away when you are on an eight-game unbeaten run and sit third in the Premier League. But if Arsenal wants to finish top-four they must resolve three big issues that could spoil their chances.
Defence
The defence is still poor, do not let clean sheets against Newcastle United and Bournemouth fool you. Arsenal has conceded 11 goals this season, that is the eleventh worst in the Premier League. Sheff Utd, Wolves and even Man Utd have conceded less.
Teams are still able to come onto Arsenal almost at will. Bournemouth was restricted to long shots for the most part on Sunday but the fact they could build up a head of steam was telling.
Nicolas Pepe
I remain confident that we will see the best of Pepe but his time is running out fast to show us all what he can really do. The 24-year-old is struggling but he does not help himself by not tracking back to help out. Unai Emery needs to work some magic and get Pepe firing on all cylinders or he will have to make way for someone that can deliver.
Over-reliance on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
If it was not for the Gabon international Arsenal would not be sitting third today. Too often Auba has got us out of trouble and when he does not Arsenal basically struggle. Arsenal cannot rely on just one man to be their consistent saviour, they need a backup. There are players there, Lacazette, Saka and even Pepe but until they start to find the back of the net as regular as Auba then the over-reliance will continue. And that is not good for everyone concerned.
There are other issues but I feel these are the three biggest ones right now.