Arsenal vs Sheffield United: 5 things learned in another draw

2. Pay attention to Bukayo Saka

In the early phases of the game, I did not feel confident in Bukayo Saka at leftback. Perhaps it was just pre-established insecurities, knowing that he was only there because Sead Kolasinac and Kieran Tierney were both hurt. Add in that he is a winger, not a left back. I think the concerns were justified.

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But about midway through the match it dawned on me that Saka was doing quite well. Not perfect, of course, well.

Sheffield found very little joy on his side of the pitch. Most of what they found came on the opposite side. Meanwhile, Saka was one of our most influential players going forward up the pitch and his delivery was simply delectable.

This has been the case since Saka has been deputizing at leftback. He hasn’t been perfect. But he’s shown more and more signs that he is an incredibly capable player that’s full of surprises. It’s not unlike Ainsley Maitland-Niles, though I hope that Saka doesn’t get relegated to a life as a fill-in fullback.

Finally, I have to ask an unpleasant question at No. 1.