Arsenal’s hopes of finishing in the Premier League’s top four were dealt a hammer blow as they lost at Southampton.
The Gunners went into the game buoyed by news that Tottenham had lost to Brighton in the lunchtime kick-off.
Arsenal, however, failed to capitalise on Spurs dropping points as they were beaten 1-0 by Southampton.
Jan Bednarek scored the only goal of the game just before half-time and Arsenal have now lost three Premier League games in a row.
Simon Collings was at St. Mary’s to see Arsenal in action...
Aaron Ramsdale 5
Didn’t really have masses to do during the afternoon. May have been slightly disappointed to have been beaten at his near post for the Saints goal.
Cedric 4
Had a pretty awful game on his return to Southampton. Set-pieces were particularly poor as he wasted two good opportunities.
Ben White 5
Not a great afternoon for the centre-back. Unfortunate with the goal as he seemed to be down off the pitch injured before coming back on.
Gabriel 6
Marginally better than his centre-back, but not by much. Dealt with Armando Broja well and handled the physical battle.
Nuno 7
Trusted by Arteta to return to the starting XI and actually did fairly well. Kept things simple and didn’t try to overplay.
Albert Sambi Lokonga 6
Had a solid game at the base of midfield. Is never going to replace what Thomas Partey can offer, but performed better than most today.
Granit Xhaka 6
A solid performance from the Swiss midfielder, who looked happier in midfield after playing left-back last week. Finished the game in a back-three.
Bukayo Saka 5
A rare off day for the England international. Missed a golden chance in the first-half when Fraser Forster denied him at point-blank range.
Martin Odegaard 5
Didn’t influence the game like he usually does and his link-up with Saka wasn’t flowing like it can. A frustrating performance.
Gabriel Martinelli 5
Started the game on the right wing but finished it at left wing-back as Arsenal pressed for a goal.
Eddie Nketiah 6
Given a rare start in the absence of Alexandre Lacazette, who was out with Covid-19. Offered some plenty of energy and a threat in behind.
Substitutions
Emile Smith Rowe (Cedric 59’) 6
Came on and had a fairly good game. Went close with a close-range effort, which Forster saved well.
Nicolas Pepe (Nuno 70’) 5
On for the final 20 minutes as Arteta tried everything to get a goal. Couldn’t make the difference, though.
Subs not used: Leno, Holding, Ogungbo, Swanson, Elneny, Azeez, Hutchinson.
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