Arsenal: Alexis Sanchez Puts Olivier Giroud Argument To Bed

Alexis Sanchez scored twice as Arsenal beat Hull City on Saturday afternoon, all but ending this season’s Olivier Giroud argument.

The Premier League returned on Saturday and Arsenal had their duties to undertake. Although there was a significant lull in the aftermath of a loss the week previous to Chelsea that extended the gap from the top of the table to 12 points and all but ended the North London side’s title hopes, this was still an important game in which both a result and form must be found.

Hull City came to the Emirates rejuvenated under Marco Silva, galvanized by his meticulous management and detailed preparation. However, the Gunners were, ultimately, too strong for their visitors, seeing past them thanks to two Alexis Sanchez goals.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

The first came in controversial circumstances. Sanchez charged down Eldin Jakupović, smothering his parried save. The ball bounced up off his leg, struck his outstretched hand and trickled over the line to put Arsenal in the lead a little over half an hour through. The second came right at the death. After a break was blocked on the line by a Hull City hand, Sanchez stepped up to calmly convert the penalty and settle the nerves that a shaky performance had produced.

After Wenger had tempered his Sanchez-as-a-striker experiment momentarily during the season, starting Olivier Giroud in the role, the Chilean was reinstated as the lone centre-forward for the loss to Chelsea last week and once again against Hull on Saturday.

The Arsenal attack looks far more dangerous with the more mobile and dynamic Sanchez in a central role. Getting him on the ball as frequently and advanced as possible is crucial for the side. When played out wide, Sanchez’s threat is curtailed by defensive duties and the importance of maintaining width, meaning that he can suffer extended periods of the game in which he sees little of the ball.

Moreover, Giroud is far more stationary, often slowing the pace of the attack down. Despite bringing a greater physicality and aerial threat, one that Arsenal have long been criticised for lacking as they look to sustain a title challenge over a full season, it is the fluid, interchangeable attack that Sanchez brings that ignites the team.

Next: Arsenal Vs Hull City: 5 Things We Learned

It has been a selection issue that has defined much of the season, especially given the ramifications to the personnel in midfield areas as a result of a decision either way. However, after another two goals against Hull, Sanchez is quickly putting the argument to bed.

Home/Arsenal News