Arsenal secured a nervy win against Newcastle United at St James’s Park and move to within four points of leaders Chelsea and put the pressure on Liverpool and Manchester United ahead of their clash on Sunday.
A two goal first half lead gave the Gunners a good start, but poor defending just after half-time set up a nervy second half.
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Here is our Arsene Wenger’s men rated.
GK) David Ospina – 7
Didn’t have much to do, but still looks shaky when trying to command his area. Calm influence late on.
RB) Calum Chambers – 6
Looks uncomfortable at right-back as he doesn’t have the mobility or pace to cope defensive or to join the attacks for Arsenal.
CB) Gabriel – 7
Showed good recovery pace throughout, but was too deep for the Newcastle goal.
CB) Laurent Koscielny – 7
Did his best in trying to bring together a makeshift back four, but he too was caught in the wrong position for Sissoko’s goal.
LB) Nacho Monreal – 6
Was too passive for Newcastle’s goal as he got overrun down the left by some simple Newcastle football. Steady otherwise.
DM) Francis Coquelin – 6
One of his less effective performances and lost his man for the Newcastle goal. Brave to stay on despite receiving another hefty knock to his nose.
CM) Santi Cazorla – 6
Struggled on insert his influence on a difficult pitch and was visibly tired after his midweek excursions in Monaco.
CM) Aaron Ramsey – 7
Showed great energy and drive, but Arsenal were desperate for someone to bring the ball down and set the pace which Ramsey couldn’t bring.
AML) Danny Welbeck – 6
Petered out after a bright start, but should’ve had a goal in the first half, and didn’t see a pass when he burst clear of the Newcastle defence.
AMR) Alexis Sanchez – 6
Badly needs a rest, and with a busy international schedule it is difficult to see where the rest will come from.
CF) Olivier Giroud – 9
Arsenal’s man of the moment was efficient with his chances to haunt Newcastle once again.
Substitutes:
Tomas Rosicky – 6
Brought relative calm in the dying embers at a time when Arsenal needed it.
Flamini – 6
Fought alongside Coquelin and was effective in his defensive duties.