3 positives & negatives from 1-0 Crystal Palace victory

Positive #2: Declan Rice

Summer signing Declan Rice was another positive from the night, with his dominant display in the middle of the park a huge reason why Arsenal were able to secure the three points.

Much has been made of his price tag, but displays of this nature will surely put those discussions to bed very quickly. He was solid in defence, effective at breaking up play and preventing counter-attacks, and was also a useful outlet in attack when needed.

At just 24 years of age, Rice is already one of our most important players despite signing merely months ago, and will only develop even further as he grows into Arteta’s style of play.

Negative #2: Kai Havertz

However, I, unfortunately, cannot say the same about fellow summer arrival Kai Havertz. It may be early in the season and therefore judging him so quickly may be considered incredibly harsh, but I cannot help but think that the money we spent on the Garman international could have been spent far more effectively.

Against both Forest and Crystal Palace, the game has passed the 24-year-old by, and he has failed to make any contribution of note in either fixture. He has demonstrated his talent in very short glimpses, but, based on what I have seen so far, I cannot help but feel we massively overpaid for his services.

He improves the strength of our squad, which is undeniable, but when players such as James Maddison, who has so far shone for the team that shall not be named, were on the market for less money, I am not sure signing Havertz was our best option.

Continued on the next slide…