3 standout players from disappointing draw against Southampton

For the third week running, Arsenal stumbled in the title race. A draw against Southampton leaves them five points clear but having played two games more.

The whistle to start the game signalled a horrendous start for the players on the pitch.

Aaron Ramsdale played a sloppy pass directly to the opposition right outside of the box. Another poor giveaway, this time by Martin Odegaard, led to a Southampton counter-attack and subsequent goal. Dismal marking at a corner allowed the visitors to head home for their third.

Arsenal were fortunate to be able to come away with a point. After the second goal, it looked like they had nothing left in the tank and were resigned to a loss. Yet they clawed their way back into the game. 3 players stood out on the night from a disappointing draw against Southampton.

3 standout players from disappointing draw against Southampton

1. Gabriel Martinelli

Since being benched for Leandro Trossard for a game, Gabriel Martinelli has been nothing short of electric. His goal contributions have rocketed and the impact he has is clear. He was the primary outlet against Southampton. Both manager and players alike realised he had the beating of Kyle Walker-Peters, leading to those on the pitch feeding the Brazilian as often as possible.

Martinelli strode past his marker time and time again, getting to the byline for crossing in dangerous balls or sliding in equally dangerous cutbacks. His biggest contribution, however, would come after Southampton scored their second.

His goal was incredibly well-taken, driving into the box and finding himself in a central position before volleying home a Bukayo Saka cross. His pace continued to be influential in the second half, allowing Arsenal to push up the pitch. The threat of his pace will be equally if not more important against Manchester City.

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