Arsenal’s fringe players put in another abject performance against Red Star Belgrade on Thursday night.
Thanks to results elsewhere, Arsenal are through to the final 32 of the Europa League with two matches to spare. However, the Gunners didn’t exactly cover themselves in glory during their ‘qualifying’ clash.
The usual players, like Coquelin, were poor and we faced the same problems we’ve encountered all season. We couldn’t break the Serbian side down, they were getting in behind our defence far too easily and when we did manage to get a shot away, it was terrible.
There was nothing inspiring, creative or exciting about that side. But we already know that since that match against Red Star could have been practically any other match we’ve played this season.
Here’s how they got on individually.
1. Defence
Matt Macey – 7
The reserve goalkeeper was clearly nervous early on but made a couple of brilliant saves, tipping a chance from Red Star’s Savic onto the bar in the first half.
The 23-year-old made three saves in total by the end of the game.
Mathieu Debuchy – 6
Another solid match from the Frenchman.
He won five aerial duels and won two tackles.
Mohamed Elneny – 5
The midfielder was once again at centre-back. And once again his passing was decent but he looked out of his depth as a defender.
Elneny completed 84% of his passes but only won a single tackle.
Rob Holding – 6
The centre-back received a yellow card but the former Bolton lad had no complaints seeing as he led with his elbow.
Not the most convincing match from the defender but certainly not the worst.
He completed 90% of his passes, won five aerial duels and three tackles. He also had a shot.
Next, midfield