3 standout Arsenal players from crucial win over Brighton

Arsenal were finally able to get over their bogey team in Brighton at the Emirates on Sunday.

The players put in a brilliant shift at home to retake their spot at the top of the table. The first half was quite a struggle. Openings were created but not capitalised on. In the second half, this continued until Gabriel Jesus headed home and Kai Havertz sealed the game.

Here are three players that stood out on Sunday.

3. William Saliba

What can be said about William Saliba that has not already been said?

Against Brighton, the Frenchman continued to prove that every single superlative ascribed to him is correct. He was dominant in every aspect. He won his aerial duels, tracked Evan Ferguson well and covered for Ben White against a dangerous Kaoru Mitoma. Yet his passing took the spotlight. Driving forward, breaking the lines with incisive passes and circulating the ball quickly all let Arsenal break down a stubborn Brighton block.

Hopefully, he can perform just as well, if not better, away at Anfield next week.

2. Declan Rice

In a league where eye-watering sums are regularly spent, Declan Rice has been worth every single pound. He might even be a bargain.

The former West Ham man has been utterly transformational and he has raised the level of the entire team. Despite being ill in the lead-up to and even during the game, Rice bossed the midfield. He anchored it alone admirably.

His defensive nous and athleticism allowed the likes of Havertz and Martin Odegaard to get forward and attack. Such has been Rice's form that Thomas Partey's absence has not been felt. A fully fit Declan Rice will provide Mikel Arteta the boost he needs in a potentially title-defining fixture.

1. Martin Odegaard

Much had been made of Martin Odegaard's drop in form a few weeks ago. He looked a bit leggy and his usual ability on the ball was not at the level fans and other players alike have grown to expect.

Since being rested and treated, however, he has looked much more like his best. On Sunday, he was brilliant. He controlled the tempo of the game, dropping deep when needed. Odegaard was also effective in the final third. The midfielder linked well with the other forwards and his quick passing allowed Bukayo Saka to isolate himself against James Milner time and time again.

Although he did overcomplicate things in the box at times, his overall performance was encouraging indeed.