Arsenal player ratings vs Southampton: Thumping 3-0 win

Midfielders

Thomas Partey (CM) – 6/10 – Had an improved game, that’s for sure, but still not great. He’s very clearly lacking in self-belief, and it impacted the early exchanges where he wasn’t playing his part in the build-up by not providing the options needed to break the press.

Found his feet gradually and even if his touch was a bit off he fed a few clever one-touch passes into teammates and was much better after the break.

Granit Xhaka (CM) – 6/10 – Sloppy is the word. In the first half alone he lost possession 12 times, but it was largely due his willingness to be brave. This is someone who clearly hasn’t played football for quite some time, although that never showed in his work rate. Despite being a bit clunky on the ball, Xhaka worked his socks off to get back and cover runners as well as support further forward.

Martin Odegaard (AM) – 8/10 – Give him a run of matches in the No. 10 position and this is what you’ll get. No more sitting deeper as a hybrid No. 8.

Even if he isn’t the archetypal No. 10 as he loves to drift into pockets on the right, when he’s more advanced he can make the world of difference. Found his groove in this game and demonstrated some glorious playmaking craft. Worked his socks off.

Excellent throughout.

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