Arsenal vs Watford: 5 talking points from Premier League win

5. Another Game, Another Clean Sheet for Arsenal

Arsenal’s defense has been superb over the last 10 games. With Benjamin White, Gabriel, Tavares/Tierney, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, the Arsenal rearguard has only conceded four goals, two of which came against Crystal Palace.

Against Watford, Arsenal barely gave the visitors a sniff. Josh King was kept quiet and his threat in behind limited to the occasional run down the channel that led to nothing.

Despite the 1-0 scoreline, it never looked in any real danger as White and Gabriel continued their impressive form as a partnership. What was once Arsenal’s Achilles heel is not perhaps one of their biggest strengths. These are two fine defenders.

Rarely did Arsenal give Watford a clear-cut opportunity in the match and that produces an ideal platform in matches when the defense keeps the opposition at arm’s length. Watford had plenty of pace they could not use on Sunday, clocking up a measly xG of 0.45.

This will be put to the ultimate test against Liverpool. But, overall, the signs are extremely positive for a once weak Arsenal back four that has found its strength and no-nonsense defending.

Aaron Ramsdale has kept as many clean sheets already this season than he had in the entire 2019/20 and 2020/21 Premier League campaigns with Bournemouth and Sheffield United respectively – even if he gave everyone a fright near the end.