A first-half blitz that saw Arsenal score four goals in the first 22 minutes against Crystal Palace today meant that the Gunners were comfortable winners on the night. With rumours of new attacking players coming in, Wenger’s men provided a perfect display of scintillating attacking football to help the Emirates move for the incoming men look like an attractive one.
Here is how the players are rated for their big win on a night they did not miss their departing star, Alexis Sanchez.
Petr Cech 6.5
Didn’t have too much to do but made one excellent block to deny Benteke after the break.
Hector Bellerin: 6.5
Was good as usual while going forward and did not have much to do in defence tonight.
Laurent Koscielny: 7.5
His return stabilized the Arsenal defence again and marked the occasion with a goal. 7
Shkodran Mustafi: 6.5
Looks a different defender when Koscielny is around him. An easy night but coped well with the little threat.
Nacho Monreal: 9
Arsenal’s left-back was on the pitch for just over half an hour, scored one and set up two. A sad end to his game as he had to limp off after the half an hour mark.
Granit Xhaka: 7
A different player on the nights when he plays his game. Brilliant corner to set up the goal.
Mohamed Elneny: 5.5
Clumsy with the tackle on Zaha. Trying hard to replicate the Coquelin role but does not have the defensive mindset needed in a big club.
Jack Wilshere: 8
Brilliant as usual from Arsenal’s number 10. Absolutely beautiful on the ball and kept the midfield moving. Played a big part in the fourth goal.
Alex Iwobi: 8
Scored a goal and was unlucky not to get another. A much-improved performance from the youngster after a few frustrating displays.
Mesut Ozil: 9
A masterclass from the German. He was on a different level tonight. Sent out a clear message to take over as Arsenal’s main man with Sanchez on the departure gates. His flick for Lacazette’s goal was mouth-watering.
Alexandre Lacazette: 8
Another energetic display from the Frenchman. He worked hard and finally broke his deadlock with a goal on the night.
Substitutes
Ainsley Maitland-Niles: 6.5
Was always on the edge tonight with Zaha running at him every time. He has had better days in an Arsenal jersey given his lofty standards of playing at wing back.
Reiss Nelson: 5
Never really got into the game.
Sead Kolasinac: N/A
