Arsenal Vs Ostersunds: 5 things we learned – Job done

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 26: Danny Welbeck of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between Burnley and Arsenal at Turf Moor on November 26, 2017 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 26: Danny Welbeck of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between Burnley and Arsenal at Turf Moor on November 26, 2017 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) /
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Arsenal, Alexandre Lacazette
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 20: Alexandre Lacazette of Arsenal celebrates scoring his side’s fourth goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium on January 20, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) /

2. Alexandre Lacazette will be required

Danny Welbeck was afforded his starting opportunity. With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang cup-tied and Alexandre Lacazette absent through a knee injury, the only senior fit striker that Wenger had available was Welbeck. Not exactly the sturdiest of situations. It was proven here.

Now, Welbeck was not exactly a liability — there was one skied, first-time effort with which he should have done better with and another reverse pass to Alex Iwobi that he egotistically denied, only to then be denied himself by a sound, if simple, challenge by the defender. But he was not necessarily a help either. He did not create much. His movement was limited. His quality on the ball waned.

There was an absence of guile about his performance. This X-Factor that is so often referred to in regards to these top strikers. It is something that Welbeck most certainly does not have. He’s industrious, yes. He’s physical, powerful, quick, and technically sound. But he’s not a natural goalscorer, and nor will he ever be. Against better opposition, Lacazette will be required. Let’s hope that his fitness allows him to answer that call.