It may have been a disappointing night for Arsenal in the League Cup, but the fact that a largely second string team was narrowly defeated by a stunning strike from a strong Southampton side should not have knocked our confidence. In fact I think that the Gunners should go into the north London derby in great shape.
Resting a few key players like Aaron Ramsey, Danny Welbeck and Mesut Ozil will mean that they will be really sharp and fired up for the spuds. And our new striker and our club record signing should be buzzing to get back in action, after both got their season going with a goal and an assist at Aston Villa. Ozil had warm words of praise for his new centre forward and they are already showing signs of a great understanding.
Another bonus from Wenger’s decision to rest players is that Per Mertesacker and Kieran Gibbs should be fully fit again, giving Arsenal an almost first choice back four. The League Cup game also gave Hector Bellerin another taste of a big game and should help if he is called on for Saturday.
Alexis Sanchez continued his great start to his Arsenal career with another goal and it was a real stunner of a free kick. My one concern is that central midfield area, but it’s only a matter of time before Rambo kicks into top gear. Let’s hope it happens against Tottenham.