Alexandre Lacazette and Gabriel Martinelli were on the scoresheet as Arsenal beat Sheffield United 3-0 on Sunday night to end their four-game winless run.
Despite the number of changes made by manager Mikel Arteta, Arsenal made a bright start against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, creating quite a few openings before Alexandre Lacazette broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute, applying the finishing touches to a beautifully worked team move.
Even though Arsenal continued to control proceedings, the second goal took some time coming. Around the 71st minute mark, Gabriel Martinelli tapped in from close range after Nicolas Pepe’s initial shot had been parried to him by Aaron Ramsdale. About 15 minutes later, the Gunners added a third with Lacazette, burying the ball into the net after being sent through by a brilliant pass from Thomas Partey.
The 3-0 win sees Arsenal end a four-game winless streak across all competitions. The result also means that they move into the ninth place in the Premier League table and are now seven points below Liverpool in sixth. Here’s how we rated the performances of the Arsenal stars at Bramall Lane on Sunday.
Bernd Leno: 6/10
A quiet outing for the German international, who had very little do on the night as his team controlled the proceedings for large parts. Was alert when called upon to end his 13-game run without a clean sheet.
Calum Chambers: 7/10
Back from injury, the ex-Southampton man was thrust into the lineup at the expense of Hector Bellerin and he justified his selection with a solid all-round display. Did not let much get past him at the back and also did manage to get forward and hit in some crosses. Finished with a joint game-high two interceptions.
Rob Holding: 7/10
A commanding display at the heart of the Arsenal defence from Holding. Was npt tested a great deal by the hosts but did what was needed of him and did so efficiently, finishing with three clearances, two tackles and four aerials won. Also completed 90% of his passes.
Pablo Mari: 7/10
Pablo Mari speaks ?
Thought he was really solid once again today. pic.twitter.com/xGg176EIZS
— Dan☔️ (@AFC_Dxn) April 11, 2021
Came in for the dodgy Gabriel Magalhaes and added a sense of calm and composure to the proceedings at the back for Arsenal. Was not stretched defensively on the night. Used the ball well throughout, completing 58 of his 62 attempted passes. Booked in the second half.
Granit Xhaka: 7/10
Slotted in at left-back and hardly ventured forward all game, almost playing as a third centre-back for most parts. But, Xhaka kept things tight and organised at the back and was smart in his use of possession, switching play with ease whenever required. Misplaced just four passes and made three clearances.
Thomas Partey: 7/10
Has not had the best of starts to life in London, but this performance was a step in the right direction following an ordinary display against Slavia Prague. Pinged balls forward accurately to start off attacks. Was not pressed by the Blades, which allowed him time on the ball to pick passes. Fine through-ball to set Lacazette up for the third goal.
Thomas Partey has provided two Premier League assists for Arsenal:
?️ Aubameyang vs. Newcastle
?️ Lacazette vs. Sheffield UtdTurns his man, fires it forward, lets the striker do the rest. ? pic.twitter.com/jyeF8xKr2Z
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 11, 2021
Dani Ceballos: 7/10
Starting in the middle of the park, the Spaniard took up positions out on the left quite regularly, where he showed some neat understanding and link-up play with Martinelli. Got the ball rolling for Arsenal with a fine assist for Lacazette’s first goal, while unleashing his tricks and flicks, which he executed accurately for the most part. Influence diminished as the game wore on, but an impressive display nevertheless.
Nicolas Pepe: 7/10
Handed a start on the right flank after his impact from the bench against Slavia Prague, Pepe may not have been able to score or assist at Bramall Lane but still produced a purposeful display. Was npt afraid to run at defenders even though he got crowded out at times while his link-up with Saka was sharp. Played a role in the second goal as it was his shot, after a driving run, that was parried to Martinelli, who scored.
Bukayo Saka: 7/10
Started in an unfamiliar No. 10 role but looked to relish in the position, linking up nicely with those around him to cause problems to the Sheffield United backline. Played a couple of key passes before hobbling off with an injury which will be a cause of concern for Arsenal ahead of the busy run-in.
Gabriel Martinelli: 8/10
Gabriel Martinelli's game by numbers vs. Sheffield United:
100% aerial duels won
7 touches in the opposition box
4 shots attempted
4 ball recoveries
2 shots on target
1 chance created
1 goalA relentless display. ? pic.twitter.com/GBSs29GfML
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 11, 2021
Handed a rare start by Arteta, the young Brazilian grabbed his opportunity with both hands. A bundle of energy from the word go, Martinelli caused the Blades’ backline problems with his direct approach and his relentless pressing when off the ball. Was at hand to pounce on the rebound from Pepe’s shot to double Arsenal’s lead.
Alexandre Lacazette: 9/10
Having endured a torrid game in the midweek, the Frenchman bounced back in style on Sunday showing his clinical nature in front of goal. Lovely flick to Saka in the build-up before he produced a composed finish to open the scoring. Good run to get on the end of Partey’s pass and find the back of the net for his second of the night. Was happy to drop deep and get involved in build-up play all game, while also helping out defensively when required.
Alexandre Lacazette in the Premier League for Arsenal:
◎ 2017-18 = 14 goals
◎ 2018-19 = 13 goals
◎ 2019-20 = 10 goals
◉ 2020-21 = 12 goalsOn course for his best yet. ⏳ pic.twitter.com/9dzAo7iqGC
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 11, 2021
SUBSTITUTES
Willian: 5/10
On for Saka in the 69th minute. Quiet outing in which he did little of note.
Mohamed Elneny: N/A
Replaced Martinelli in the 83rd minute.
Eddie Nketiah: N/A
Late substitute for Lacazette.
