- We have a ‘keeper!
In the Raya vs Ramsdale debate, it’s been the former’s ability to distribute the ball that has been cited as the main reason Arteta took him on loan loan from Brentford and plays him in virtually every match. With the defence (and indeed, the whole team working to defend) keeping the number of shots to save to almost zero, Raya’s ability at shot-stopping – Ramsdale’s strength – has barely been tested. It was against Chelsea, though. And he passed with flying colours. He commanded his box, making point-blank saves and diving at feet to keep a clean sheet. Mikel Arteta – he knows what we want!
- What a partnership!
The Gabriel/Saliba partnership was to the fore again against Chelsea. When Jackson got past Saliba and fired in a shot, it was Gabriel who was mopping up, deflecting the ball on to a post and to safety. It’s also interesting that although Jackson’s pace gave Saliba trouble a couple of times in the first half, whatever was up was largely resolved for the rest of the game. Brilliant game management and a good rehearsal for the pace of Son at White Hart Lane at the weekend.
- The new Bergkamp?
That delicate chip into the far corner of the Chelsea goal was pure genius, pure Dennis. The fact he was wearing number 4 is somewhat unexpected! (Not least to Ben White, apparently!!)
- An early goal helps
During most of our recent run of form, the first goal has come in the first thirty minutes, and when big scores have been racked up, it’s been with the first ten. No coincidence, it would seem, as once ahead, the team’s passes can flow. And the current goal difference is a record for the Premier League. Amazing.
- Tiredness evaporates with winning
The team looked exhausted in the latter stages against Villa and Bayern. Not against Chelsea. In fact, Martin Ødergaard looked like he could run for another 90 minutes. Fear not, Martin, you’ll have to again on Sunday! Let’s hope the Chelsea win invigorates them once more, while Pep’s talk of his squad needing to be kept on ice because they’re so exhausted encourages his team to play like they’ve had enough for the season! And Klopp’s lot, too!!
- We are top of the League.
May it stay that way. Hard to believe there are only four games to go, and just two at the Emirates. Are we getting excited?
Richard Smith 24 April 2024