3 standout players from Arsenal’s kickabout against Brentford

1. Granit Xhaka

Since Arteta succeeded Unai Emery as manager, no other player has been as important for the club as Granit Xhaka. The inconsistencies, the lapses in concentration and the impulsiveness have all disappeared from his game (touch wood). His performances have been an absolute revelation in a continuously changing squad. Even more impressively, Xhaka has improved while his position has been altered.

No longer tasked with lining up in a double pivot and progressing play from deep while covering transitions, the Swiss international has shown his strengths further up the pitch. He covers so much more ground in his new box-to-box role and has contributed to an attack that is firing on all cylinders. His pass for Gabriel Jesus’ goal was perfectly timed and weighted to beat a deep defensive line.

His work off the ball was not to be scoffed at either. As effective as he was up the pitch, he was equally dedicated when defending. He cut out several passes and helped mop up the rare occasions when Brentford forayed forward. His performances have been crucial to Arsenal’s success and he is finally getting the praise he deserves.

Arsenal got back to winning ways against Brentford. Despite injuries, every player on the pitch played their role to great effect. If Arsenal continue to exhibit the attacking prowess, defensive nous and pure control they did against their London rivals, they are poised for an exciting season indeed.