Arsene Wenger explained why he finally started his record signing in a big game – because he wanted to make use of Lacazette’s link-up play against Tottenham.
Much to everyone’s relief, Lacazette started in the 2-0 win against Tottenham.
There were some doubts about his selection, as Arsene Wenger had already left him out of the starting line-up for big games twice this season.
This time, though, it seemed Wenger felt Lacazette’s skills would be useful against Spurs.
“He plays his game, I think he’s a player who connects well with others,” Wenger said, as reported by the Metro.
“He’s not only a goal getter, you want him to participate in the build-up and be on the end of things.”
Lacazette’s running off the ball was a problem for Spurs all game.
He slipped away from the Spurs defence to set-up the second goal of the match, and generally linked up well with both Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez.
He was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet himself, as a combination of poor refereeing and last-ditch Spurs defending kept him out.
Overall, his work rate off the ball was excellent before he was taken off in the second half for Francis Coquelin.
That substitution means that he’s still to complete a full 90 minutes since the opening game of the season.
This time, at least, there was a good reason for taking him off.
Arsenal were defending a two goal lead, and needed some extra stability in midfield to see the game out.
With any luck, Lacazette will start in the next big game as well, and every big game after that.