Arsenal player ratings vs Leicester: Thomas Partey nets in 2-0 win

Arsenal moved back into the top four on Sunday as goals from Thomas Partey and Alexandre Lacazette secured a 2-0 win over Leicester in the Premier League.

Mikel Arteta went into this game aiming to secure a fifth consecutive league win for the second time in his managerial career, opting to field the same side that grabbed a 3-2 win over Watford last time out.

Emile Smith Rowe was back in the squad having recovered from Covid and assumed a place on the bench, with Takehiro Tomiyasu still not recovered from injury in time to join him.

That meant another place in the matchday squad for young defender Zak Swanson.

Arsenal player ratings vs Leicester as Gunners move into top four with goals from Thomas Partey & Lacazette sealing 2-0 win

Arsenal took the lead with 11 minutes on the clock when Gabriel Martinelli’s in-swinging corner was nodded home by Thomas Partey at the near post to net just his second goal in red and white.

The Ghanaian also struck the woodwork with a bending short shortly after, while it required a superb challenge from Benjamin White in the box to deny James Maddison what would have been a certain goal.

Arsenal got their second shortly before the hour mark after a bizarrely long VAR for what was a clear penalty eventually awarded the spot-kick for Soyuncu’s handball. Lacazette made no mistake from the spot to end his drought in front of goal.

From thereon in it was about conserving energy and keeping possession away from the Foxes, which Arsenal did well enough as they returned to fourth spot in the table ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Liverpool.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Aaron Ramsdale (GK) – 7/10 – Made a superb save from Soyuncu in the first half where he needed to show clever reflexes, and other than one moment where he pushed a ball straight back into danger he dealt with matters well.

Cedric Soares (RB) – 5/10 – Looking almost too energised, Cedric threw himself into situations too quickly, leaving spaces behind him and gaps between defenders. It was his flank where Leicester were finding joy.

Benjamin White (CB) – 8/10 – One magnificent tackle to deny Maddison in the first half was crucial for Arsenal to go into half-time still leading. Undeterred by Leicester using his side as a pressing trigger, he found Saka in behind with some clever passes.

Gabriel (CB) – 7/10 – In possession there was a big improvement from Gabriel, whose fizzed passes into feet were at their usual level. A solid outing for him, one he needed.

Kieran Tierney (LB) – 8/10 – It was roles reversed on Sunday as Tierney was given greater license to attack than his fellow full-back, and he got in behind Pereira on a few occasions. He cut inside well and kept possession ticking over, in what was a quietly complete performance from him.

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Midfielders

Martin Odegaard (AM) – 9/10 – As ever, he lit up the Emirates Stadium. Body feints, flicks and tricks were in abundance, but crucially they all had substance as he created five chances alone in the first half. That was the most created in the first half of a Premier League game by an Arsenal player since Mesut Özil against Everton in October 2017.

He kept the ball expertly all game, kept initiating the team press and glued everything together. He’s frighteningly good. You can’t help but stand up and applaud.

Thomas Partey (DM) – 9/10 – The irony that someone who takes so many shots from outside has scored two goals with a collective distance of about 8 yards isn’t lost on anyone. Could so easily have put Arsenal two in front, as well.

It was another elegant and controlling performance from someone who is beaming with confidence and letting that flow through his performances. An excellent all-round display from him.

Granit Xhaka (AM) – 6/10 – Was caught higher up the pitch on a couple of occasions but this is the result of the system and a risk Arsenal always take. As far as retaining possession and moving Arsenal into dangerous areas he did his job.

Positionally it was a strong game from him, moving into the right zones to block lanes, but his limitations in terms of mobility were highlighted. Arsenal need someone who can run with the ball. Simple as that.

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Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – 7/10 – The standout element of Saka’s performance on Sunday was his excellent physical attributes. It isn’t mentioned enough not only how strong he is, but how well he uses it.

Whether it was tracking back to win a tackle or holding his man off before spinning past him, there was power in his strides and he gave Luke Thomas a tough ride.

Alexandre Lacazette (ST) – 7/10 – Barely involved in the game, when his chance came from 12 yards he made no mistake, this time going high when he so usually goes low. Was comfortable enough in possession but sometimes needed to opt for the simple route.

Gabriel Martinelli (LW) – 7/10 – Was taking too long in possession when the ball came down his side. Known for being decisive in his actions, on this occasion there wasn’t quite enough conviction.

He did get an assist, though, and after the break he was much more direct and aggressive on the ball, which is what Arsenal needed.

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Substitutes

Emile Smith Rowe – 7/10 – Nearly grabbed himself another goal off the bench when he wiggled his way into the box before being blocked by Schmiechel. He needed these minutes to help get him sharp for the games ahead.

Nicolas Pepe – N/A – Barely touched the ball after coming on.

Eddie Nketiah – N/A – Barely touched the ball after coming on.