Arsenal faced Southampton at St. Mary’s in the FA Cup fourth round game and it turned out to be a one-sided game even though the hosts were in a good run of form. Arsenal, unbeaten in six, travelled to a stadium that’s been buzzing ever since the morale-boosting victory over Liverpool which has booked a Wembley visit in the EFL Cup, but the Gunner put in a domineering display to swat aside Claude Puel’s side. Here are the player ratings.
GK: David Ospina – 6/10
Made a couple of good saves and showed ability in the air but he nearly handed Southampton a huge goal. Overall it was a decent performance.
RB: Hector Bellerin – 6.5/10
Won the battle against Sims and remained solid defensively. He was adventurous in the attack and provided a threat down the flank. Caps of a good game for the young Spaniard.
CB: Shkodran Mustafi – 7/10
He still remains unbeaten in an Arsenal shirt and it was a commanding performance. He not only kept himself solid against Long but also made sure that Holding learnt from him.
CB: Rob Holding – 7/10
Hardly put a foot wrong beside Mustafi and showed composure as well as good capability. A man to watch in the future!
LB: Kieran Gibbs – 6/10
Showed good energy but he had flaws as well. He was getting caught easily towards the later stages of the first half.
CM: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7.5/10
Offered a new dimension from the central midfield as his directness brought a whole new elevation to the Arsenal attack. This can possibly be utilised more by Wenger as the Englishman impressed. He got a worthy assist for Welbeck’s second.
CM: Maitland-Niles – 7/10
His ball distribution stood out and the youngster took his chance with open hands. This was his 4th appearance of the season.
RM: Theo Walcott – 8.5/10
Got his fifth hat-trick in Arsenal colours as his pace was a threat throughout. He should just maintain his fitness because when fit, he offers extraordinary quality.
CAM: Rene Adelaide – 5/10
He was decent but should add much more of an impact in that role.
LM: Lucas Perez – 7/10
He contributed magnificently to Welbeck’s opener with a disguised pass and his game looked good today. Can be used to maximum effect in the rotation and these displays only help his reputation grow.
ST: Danny Welbeck – 9/10
Coming back after a long term injury, he led the line with great confidence. His two opening goals were brilliant and he played a crucial role in the third. Performances like this will certainly heat up the selection dilemma for Wenger.
