FA Cup: Arsenal Finally Win at Old Trafford
Francis Coquelin dons a mask after breaking his nose in late February. PHOTO CREDIT: Arsenal Twitter account @Arsenal.
Francis Coquelin and Mesut Özil Have Been Like “New Signings”
Francis Coquelin is a fascinating story. The French defensive midfielder started his career with the Gunners in 2008. Up until a few months ago, it had been a career marred by loans as the youngster could not live up to his potential. In the final season of his contract, and bound to be let go by the Gunners at the end of this season, Coquelin set out on loan to Charlton Athletic in November. That loan only lasted 5 games due to an injury to Mikel Arteta.
After making a few short appearances, an injury to Mathieu Flamini forced Arsene Wenger to put the 23-year old midfielder’s name in the starting XI. Coquelin put in an impressive performance in a superb victory against a then top 4 West Ham side in East London. The feisty Coquelin has not lost his spot since then.
Not only has Coquelin retained his spot in the starting XI, he is likely one of the first names Wenger pencils in. Since coming back to Arsenal from his loan, Coquelin leads the league in almost every defensive category. His league-leading 37 interceptions put Coqeulin ahead of the likes of Federico Fernandez and Daley Blind. Coquelin also leads the EPL in duels won by a large margin since that time. His 97 duels won eclipses the next best in the category, Ashley Barnes, by 21. Lastly, he ranks second in tackles behind Pablo Zabaleta but ahead of Fernandinho, Alex Song, and Nemanja Matic.
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Mesut Özil has also been brilliant since his return from injury. It wasn’t long ago that Angel Di Maria’s former Real Madrid teammate was under the same scrutiny Di Maria is currently facing. After a near perfect start to his Arsenal career, the German midfielder’s play took a large dip. He was noted as being lazy due to his lack of tracking back and the physical play of the league had taken it’s toll on his somewhat weak frame.
After going down early with a knee injury this season, Özil has bulked up and played with purpose. For those that have watched Arsenal matches since his return, it’s very noticeable that Özil is much stronger on the ball. As a result, he is able to hold the ball longer to make those incisive passes he’s known for.
Both players were extremely instrumental in this match. While not on the score sheet for any goals or assists, Coquelin’s play and pressure disrupted many United build ups in the final third.
Meanwhile, Özil made the pass to Oxlade-Chamberlain that set up the first goal and very nearly had a late assist on a superb pass to Alexis Sanchez, whose shot glanced De Gea and went wide.
These two players have raised the Gunners to the higher standard they’ve played and it showed on Monday night.
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