Here we have with us the Arsenal player ratings as they thrashed Norwich City 5-0 during their boxing day fixture. Arsenal are now 4th in the Premier League table, 6 points above Tottenham Hotspur who have 3 games in hand. Whereas Norwich are still at the bottom of the table in search of their third victory of the season. This Arsenal victory was a statement that the Gunners will challenge for a spot in the top four this season.
Arsenal took the lead in the 6th minute after Odegaard found Saka on the right flank and slotted the ball in the net with his favored left foot. The Gunners extended their lead just before half-time as Odegaard got another assist when he played a through ball to Tierney’s great run who finished in the bottom far corner.
Arsenal tripled their lead with yet another great effort from Saka who took a shot from outside the box and finished in the bottom far corner. Lacazette also found the scoresheet in the 84th minute as he smashed his penalty into the bottom right corner. Emile Smith-Rowe added another one in extra time as he scored tap-in which fell into his legs from a deflected shot from Pepe.
This was Arsenal’s fifth successive win in a row. They have scored 19 goals and conceded just 2 in those 5 games. This shows how far Arsenal have come this season and won’t go without a fight.
Arsenal Player Ratings vs Norwich City
Aaron Ramsdale – 7/10
He did not have much to do in the game but helped whenever he got a chance.
Ben White – 7/10
He played as the right-back and filled in the shoes of Nuno Tavares. However, he did well in recovery and contributed well attack. Nevertheless, he had a few nervy moments but did well overall.
Rob Holding – 7/10
Holding had very little to do and very little to deal with as Norwich barely troubled the Arsenal defense.
Gabriel – 7/10
Similar to Holding he had did not have any trouble and the Arsenal defenders had all the time to progress the ball forward.
Kieran Tierney – 8/10
He provided constant energy on the left flank and took a really good goal to find himself on the scoresheet. Nevertheless, he has to improve his crossing.
Thomas Partey – 8/10
He was comfortable throughout the night and looked way more comfortable in having the ball. Moreover, his passing was crisp and accurate and did his job brilliantly.
Granit Xhaka – 7/10
Xhaka had a similar game to Partey and always looked forward to pass the game. He loves physical duels in the game instead of a calm controlled game.
Martin Odegaard – 9/10
Almost every Arsenal went through Martin Odegaard and he got himself 2 excellent assists. He ran the show with his attacking and passing prowess.
Bukayo Saka – 9/10
He scored an excellent brace and showcased his brilliant finishing skill. However, he was fouled various times but gave the defenders plenty to think about.
Alexandre Lacazette – 7/10
Lacazette is slowly getting into the rhythm at Arsenal. However, this was probably a bit quieter game for him compared to the previous few games. Nevertheless, he troubled the defense with his movement and scored a good penalty.
Gabriel Martinelli – 7/10
He unluckily had a goal canceled but still ran and did not let his intensity levels drop. Insane work rate.
Substitutes
Mohamed Elneny – 7/10
Gave his teammates assurance and gave some time off to Partey.
Nicholas Pepe – 6/10
Had very little to do in the game when he came on but helped Smith Rowe with his goal.
Emile Smith Rowe – 8/10
His pass helped Lacazette win his penalty and then scored the fifth coming on from the bench. Great cameo.
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