Following confirmation from Lucas’s agent that he doesn’t want to leave Arsenal, but is unhappy with his lack of game time, the Spaniard got the nod for the Gunner’s FA Cup clash against Sutton United.

What was startling clear from the forward’s body language was his discontent with his position at the club or at the very least within this team. He’s finding it hard to bed in and despite scoring with more or less every opportunity he’s been given, he knows he’s probably not going to get picked against Liverpool, making his goal against the U’s pretty hollow.

You can understand why he’s frustrated and why he looked unhappy on the pitch against Sutton.

Interchanging with Theo Walcott from the centre out right, positionally, Lucas was brilliant.

Although Arsenal’s first goal was a touch fortunate considering Sutton goalkeeper, Ross Worner, who’s coincidentally a Gooner, let the ball roll past him (distracted by Theo’s movement in front of him), it was Lucas’ ability to find space, keep the ball in play, cut inside and finish calmly, which led Arsenal to going 1-0 up.

The goal marked Lucas’ seventh of the season – sixth in cup competitions.

The forward continued to get in the right positions and show hunger to win the ball back when he lost it.

Lucas continued to look for another goal in the second half, even after Theo Walcott scored his 100th for Arsenal, putting the Gunners 2-0 ahead. Lucas was involved in the build-up and not long after, had a long-range shot. It wasn’t on target but he struck it well and it showed just how hungry he is.

Overall, Lucas was Who Scored’s highest rated player (8.1) and could have managed a handful of assists. His pass completion rate wasn’t fantastic – 66% – but he made up for it with sheer determination. Although he was dispossessed three times, he chased every single one down in an attempt to win the ball back.

 

Stats: WhoScored.