Three Things we learned from Arsenal v Sunderland

Disappointing result for Arsenal yesterday, but not for the lack of trying. In a match where Arsenal needed the three points to keep their hopes of a top two finish alive, they threw absolutely everything forward in the latter stages of the match but just fell short. It seems Arsenal were doomed with bad luck from the let go, with Wilshere and Cazorla both spurning chances early on. Wave after wave of Arsenal attack yielded the same results, with the likes of Giroud, Ozil, and Walcott later on all coming close but no cigar.

Arsenal saw a chance cleared off the line and another hit the crossbar, which sums up the side’s fortune (or lack thereof) on the day. It wasn’t meant to be, and the side will have to settle for a third place finish.

Wenger made a few changes to the side, and as such we learned a few things from the match. Click below to view three things we learned from Arsenal vs Sunderland.

Wilshere’s “alright”

That was Wenger’s assessment of the player’s performance when asked yesterday after the match. I though Jack did well, pulling the strings and creating several dangerous Arsenal attacks. He was unlucky not to convert on a few occasions but overall showed he is capable of regaining a place in the XI.

He replaced Coquelin in the line up yesterday, and although I don’t see this being a permanent change, he offered something different to Coquelin with his bursting runs through the midfield. He is dangerous when he changes pace and leaves defenders for dead and that kind of driving forward can be a real asset to the side.

Gibbs returns, sort of

Another player who has missed quite a bit of football lately is Kieran Gibbs. He was given another shot as well and did not quite take it as well as Wilshere took his. That is not to say he was poor however, but it is clear he has his work cut out for him if he wishes to earn his spot back. The form of Nacho Monreal looks certain to keep Gibbs out of the side for a while, and yesterday was Gibbs’ real shout at winning it back.

I thought he was caught out of position on too many occasions, and looked particularly rash going forward sometimes. May be just the case of a few jitter having not featured much, but certainly not the best showing from him. Not the worst either, but not the best.

Walcott makes a statement

Walcott came the closest of any body to scoring yesterday, seeing his effort cleared off the line just moments after entering the fray. Reported contract rebel Walcott has been left frustrated with his lack of first team opportunities and is now staking a claim for a return of his own. He played will against United and was exceptional again yesterday. He looked lively in his cameo off the bench, with his pace and movement proving a real asset to the side.

Should these performances continue next season, he could find himself on the teamsheet much more often which will in turn improve his contract situation. Hopefully that is.