3. Bellerin and Tierney put on a performance
Both Tierney and Bellerin put in very resilient and passion-driven performances, especially in the first half and the certainly created many chances that Arsenal, unfortunately, couldn’t capitalise on.
A lot of the first half action came down both flanks, with the fullbacks using their incredible speed to get forward into the final third and provide those important crosses into the box.
Although many of Arsenal’s crosses in games don’t always result in chances, having players on both sides who have the pace to get forward and put the crosses into the box so often, It’s such a key part of Arsenal’s set up and when the right ball is played in, the goals are there.
The two of them combined got 139 touches on the ball and Tierney made five long balls. The two fullbacks showed their blistering pace as well as their ability to get back and defend.
Bellerin has been criticised recently for his average performances and a lot of Arsenal fans have said that they prefer Cedric in the starting line up rather than the Spaniard, who could be on his way out in the summer.
This performance has shown glimpses of what Bellerin still has to prove and in order to determine his future at the club, then these last couple of months are crucial for the 25-year old to prove himself to Arteta.
Tierney recently returned from injury, and as expected, has fitted straight back into the squad and has continued to be a threat going forward as well as being a solid left-back when it comes to defending.
The Scotsman has been one of Arsenal’s most important players this season and he will certainly be in Arteta’s plans for the future.
A very impressive performance by the fullbacks and a positive to take forward into the North London Derby on Sunday
What did you make of Arsenal’s display?