Arsenal Vs Everton: 5 things we learned – Mikel Arteta brilliance

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates scoring his teams third goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Everton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 23, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates scoring his teams third goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Everton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 23, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates after scoring his sides third goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Everton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 23, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal celebrates after scoring his sides third goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Everton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 23, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

2. Aubameyang is awesome

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was the best player on the pitch. But what separates him from every other player in the team is not his ability, however astounding it may be. He was also the hardest working player on the pitch, and the combination of his talent and tenacity is terrifying for any opponent.

Aubameyang’s goals were quintessential Aubameyang goals: a bent run in behind from out wide, spearing a cool and calm finish into the far corner by opening his body up to curl home; a smart header after drifting away from the Everton centre-backs to find space in a congested penalty area and meet Nicolas Pepe’s cross. But it was his work-rate that was most impressive.

Playing in a position that is obviously not his preferred role, Aubameyang got his head down and did the dirty work. He pressed from the front, he tracked runners, he supported Bukayo Saka behind him, he led as a character and club captain. He was utterly brilliant, and Arsenal are very lucky to have him.