Positives & negatives from Arsenal's 1-0 defeat at Liverpool

Dominik Szoboszblai's emphatic free-kick may have gifted all three points to the current champions but there was enough evidence in their performance to suggest that Arsenal aren't too far away and that they are definitely in this title race.

Liverpool had the better of the opening exchanges with Cody Gakpo having the first shot in anger for the hosts.

William Saliba's injury forced him off after just four minutes which meant that the young Spaniard Chrithian Mosquera would be required to deputise in one of the Gunners' most difficult fixtures of the season.

To his credit, Mosquera handled the situation brilliantly and Arsenal went into the half-time break on level terms.

The second-half was livelier and Liverpool were unlucky to have a goal chalked off for offside before Szoboszlai delivered the coup de grace with less than ten minutes left to go.

Arsenal had their chances but few of them were particularly clear cut. Viktor Gyokeres, who gets a mention below, found it difficult to get into the game and was restricted to just 18 touches in the entire match.

Positives & negatives from Arsenal's 1-0 defeat at Liverpool

Positive #1: Christhian Mosquera filled Saliba's shoes admirably

Arsenal's decision to buy Christhian Mosquera was entirely vindicated by the young Spaniard's mature display at Anfield on Sunday.

After coming on for William Saliba very early in the first half, Mosquera was required to play more than 90 minutes (including 7 minutes of added time at the end of the match).

Mosquera was the perfect replacement in many ways given he plays in a similar way to Saliba. He was comfortable on the ball and his ability to bring the ball out from defence was reassuring. If Saliba is out for any length of time, it is good for Arteta to know that he has an accomplished substitute.

The fact that Liverpool failed to score from open play is a reflection on Mosquera's defensive play. Mosquera made four tackles, three clearances and blocked two shots after coming on at Anfield.

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