Arsenal player ratings (Arsenal 2-0 Hull)

Today an Arsenal side rather damaged by injuries faced Hull (the same side that they beat in last year’s FA Cup final to end a nine year trophy drought) in the first round of the FA Cup. Hull defended very well but Arsenal dominated. The end result saw Arsenal win 2-0, thanks to goals from Per Mertesacker who headed home an Alexis Sanchez corner. The one and only, Alexis, secured Arsenal’s win with a lovely finish.

The ratings:

Ospina: 7.5 – It was definitely the right decision to drop Wojiech Szczesny after a poor performance vs Southampton and although not tested too much the Columbian summer signing played very well.

Bellerin: 7 – A good performance from the Spanish fullback who’s only getting better with playing time. He showed his pace and attacking ability, whilst also not getting caught out in defence which he often has been on other occasions. He’s progressing very nicely.

Chambers: 7 – The last couple of games were poor for Calum Chambers but I feel that he stepped up to the mark today. Nothing particularly notable from him but a solid performance nonetheless.

Mertesacker: 8 – The last ‘player ratings’ I did was back when we drew 2-2 with Liverpool and I remember giving Mertesacker something like a 3.5, and saying that he was the worst player for us. However, he was excellent today and got a much needed goal. Hopefully his confidence has been restored as he has been under criticism for poor performances before this game.

Monreal: 7 – Ok. Solid. Not much more to say really. Does the job in defence and that’s about it.

Coquelin: 8 – The 23 year old has really impressed (me at least) since returning from his loan at Charlton. Despite a rather aggressive tackle which wasn’t great Coquelin was fantastic today. His passing was good, he defended well… what more could you want?

Rosicky: 7 – Lively (as always) and contributed to a lot of nice Arsenal play. Had one particular run into the box which was cut out which would’ve been a superb goal. Decent performance.

Cazorla: 7.5 – Another great match for the little magician who is currently thriving in the Arsenal midfield. Contributed to a lot of nice Arsenal play as I said with Rosicky and got a nice assist for Sanchez’ goal. Good.

Campbell: 6 – The lower rating compared to other Arsenal players is due to his poor performance in front of goal. His passing and movement was not at fault but he wasted more than one very good chances.

Walcott: 6 – The worst Arsenal player for me today but this is understandable as he has just returned from injury after not playing for (exactly) a year. Nevertheless, it was brilliant to see Theo playing today. When he is sharp and fit he will help us a lot. We’ve all missed him so much.

Sanchez: 8 – Yet again a fantastic performance by the man of the moment – Alexis Sanchez. He’s been in stunning form recently and really proved his qualities today. He had a lovely chipped attempt earlier on which unfortunately did not go I but did eventually grab his goal. What a brilliant player he is.

Chamberlain: 6.5 – Added some pace and energy but sadly looked to pick up a slight injury.