Arsenal sailed through to the fourth round of the FA Cup following a 1-0 victory over Leeds United on Monday night. Below are the main talking points from the clash.
Arsenal Need a New Right Back
With Hector Bellerin injured and Ainsley Maitland Niles rested, Arsenal deployed 31-year-old center back Sokratis as the right back. Though the Greek defender did not put foot wrong all match, it was easy to see he is not a right-back.
It is exactly why Arsenal need to purchase a new right-back because the team cannot continue to play makeshift players in such a crucial position.
Lacazette Out, Martinelli in
Four the fourth game running, French striker Alexandre Lacazette failed to score a goal for Arsenal despite playing the full match. Lacazette has been out of form this season and is in desperate need of a rest.
Luckily for Arsenal, they already have a replacement for him in young Brazil forward Gabriele Marinelli. The teenager is the second highest top scorer at Arsenal this season and should be playing ahead of the poor Lacazette.
Nicholas Pepe is Getting There
For the second game running, Arsenals record signing Nicholas Pepe put in an inspired performance an was involved in the winning goal. After a rough first few months, Pepe is now fully adjusting to the rigors of the English game and Arsenal fans are happy to see it.
Pepe really is here!
Arteta Still Has Lots of Work To Do
In the first half, Arsenal was completely ou played by the Championship side and was even lucky to go into the break still level. That half showcased Arsenals lack of quality as some of the players are simply not good enough.
Mikel Arteta may be a good coach but he needs better players to work with. There is still a lot of work to be done at Arsenal.