Petr Cech will be crucial to Arsenal’s season: After a nightmare debut against West Ham United where he was single-handedly responsible for the 2-0 loss, Petr Cech exhibited his class, making 2 top-class saves against Coutinho and Benteke, the latter from just 4 yards out. Arsenal has brought one of best goalkeepers in the league. With another striker and defensive midfielder, Arsenal can push forward and win the title.
Liverpool’s new defense looks solid
Last season, Liverpool’s back-four was in shambles. A constantly shifting and underperforming defense meant Liverpool conceded 1.26 goals per match. This season, the back four has an identity. Full-backs Nathaniel Clyne and Joe Gomez bring mobility and defensive stability contrasting the sluggish performances of Glen Johnson last season. The center backs Skrtel and Lovren look in sync and complement each other. This defense has a good feel about it and can charge Liverpool into the top-4.
Calum Chambers needs to improve
A £16-million buy from Southampton, Calum Chambers has barely played since January, on basis of today, for good reason. The always-physical Benteke gave him a run-around, taking advantage of Chamber’s naivety and lack of speed. Furthermore, he was guilty of poor distribution and turning the ball over in threatening positions. His mistaken pass to Coutinho would’ve been a certain goal had it not been for a magnificent last-ditch tackle by Coquelin. Chambers’ time at Arsenal will be limited if he continues playing like this.
Liverpool’s misses Daniel Sturridge
Liverpool has invested heavily in its frontline, buying Benteke and Ings. Despite this, they have only scores two goals so far and clearly miss Sturridge, a match-winner and clinical finisher. Coutinho has been Liverpool’s star-man this season making numerous chances and scoring wonder-goals. Nevertheless, he can’t perform every match. Liverpool needs Sturridge back if they want to win against other top opposition. A link-up between these two star-players is a mouth-watering prospect we all want to see.
Arsenal needs a new striker
Olivier Giroud, Arsenal’s first choice striker endured a torrid time against Liverpool. Tightly marked by Lovren, the burly striker made just 22 passes. His replacement, fleet-footed Theo Walcott was anonymous as well. Both players are excellent footballers. However Arsenal’s current formation needs someone with both Walcott’s mobility and Giroud’s link-up play. While Danny Welbeck has both attributes, he has not lived up to expectations. Arsenal needs a world-class striker like Benzema or Cavani if they want to challenge for the title.
(The author is a student of UCLA and is a NewsMobile mobile journalist)