Arsenal vs Blackpool player ratings: Joe Willock, you rule

By Josh Sippie | Jan 5, 2019

BLACKPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 05: Joe Willock of Arsenal celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during the FA Cup Third Round match between Blackpool and Arsenal at Bloomfield Road on January 5, 2019 in Blackpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mark Robinson/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Mark Robinson/Getty Images) /

Centerbacks

6.5. I have about zero confidence in this defense. It’s not even that Sokratis was particularly bad, it’s just that the whole set-up looks flimsy and perpetually on the brink of collapse. Maybe it’s the lack of height, who knows. But it’s not good. Sokratis is far better as the central pivot in a back three rather than in a pairing. Still, he had a few moments of being a solid defender. Just not many.. CB. Arsenal. SOKRATIS

6.5. Had to be moved from rightback at the start of the match when Koscielny was ruled out and, as has been the theme of the season, didn’t do a lot to inspire confidence in this defense. Individually, I don’t see much fault in these two, but as a unit, it just wasn’t something that made me feel too assured.. CB. Arsenal. STEPHAN LICHTSTEINER