Arsenal v Watford: Player Ratings

Wasn’t particularly busy, but did have a couple saves to make. Another clean sheet, he’s the best goalkeeper in the league so far this season.

Like the rest of the defense, had some shaky moments in the opening half. But he’s absolutely lethal going forward and provided the assist for Arsenal’s third.

Left Koscielny alone on an island a couple times, and had his lack of pace exposed a couple more. There may come a day when he’s second choice to Gabriel, but for the time being, his assuredness in the air and in organizing the defense keeps him in the side.

Had a couple “could have done better” moments, but he snuffed out two attacks that would have seen a one-on-one with Cech.  

I know I said before that he is in the conversation for best left back in the league, and he did nothing to disprove the notion today. A physical presence in defense, and a creative threat combining with Alexis going forward.

It’s amazing what confidence does to a man. When Coquelin came into the side in the grip of winter last campaign, there was a remarkable tendency for the players around him to avoid giving him the ball. Today he completed 94% of his passes, played some wonderful long balls out to the wings, and was at his usual level of defending tremendously. Only point of caution: it would be good of him to remember he’s not actually Santi Cazorla.

Arsene Wenger had concerns about his physical adaptation to the league, but consider those assuaged. The robust Spaniard is actually a pretty good defender and can win possession back well. But his best attributes are always his footwork, passing, and vision.

Was everywhere on the pitch today, and it’s good to see him get a goal to end his dry spell. Should have scored from an early Alexis pass (nearly identical to the miss against United) but hopefully this will have a positive knock-on effect.

MAN OF THE MATCH- Mesut Ozil created six chances with two assists. Most assists of any player in the Premier League this year, according to Squawka. If you raise your children to be Arsenal fans, and I encourage you to do just that, you’ll be telling them you watched one of the greatest natural talents of all time pull strings week in and week out. 

Energetic, effervescent, pick your adjective. Great to see him continue his rich vein of form. That’s 10 goals in six games for Alexis Sanchez. Look out.

Not a great day at the office, his best chances came earlier in the match before Watford grew into the game. He’ll remain Arsenal’s first choice center forward, but he missed an opportunity to build on his last performance.

Arsenal’s super-sub of the moment, he’s scored three in his last five appearances. Another Squawka stat you say? Olivier Giroud is second only to Sergio Aguero for most goals in the last three seasons.

Slipped on the ball, but we won’t ding the skipper for that. Completed 9/10 passes.

Came on, ran around a bit. He’s so dangerous when he builds up a head of steam and he’s creative in the final third, but there’s something to be desired for his play over the rest of the pitch.