While the scoresheet may not reflect his individual contribution, Ben White‘s impact on Arsenal‘s crucial 3-2 derby win over Tottenham cannot be understated.
The right-back’s annoying, yet hilarious, tactics during set pieces played a pivotal role in securing both goals from dead-ball situations.
Ben White‘s understanding of his role during Arsenal’s set-pieces is clear in his ability to disrupt the opposition goalkeeper, even when he’s not even trying too, such is the reputation he is building. Nicknamed Arsenal‘s dark art master by some fans, he employs a blend of irritation and ingenuity to create confusion and distraction in the opponent’s penalty area.
Disrupting Vicario, creating opportunities
Against Tottenham, White‘s target was goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. He employed a unique approach, subtly attempting to undo Vicario’s gloves before the corner which saw Arsenal make it 1-0.
This distraction set the tone for what followed, allowing Arsenal to capitalise on Vicario’s lack of focus on the ball coming in. When Bukayo Saka whipped Arsenal’s corner in, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg got his head to it, sending the ball flying past his own keeper.
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Clever movement, White’s perfect positioning
The second goal showed off White‘s tactical awareness further. Just before the corner, he created space between himself and Vicario, pushing the goalkeeper out of position. This clever manoeuvring left Kai Havertz unmarked for a free header that secured Arsenal‘s lead.
While White‘s statistics won’t reflect his set-piece influence, his impact on Arsenal‘s success is undeniable. His ability to disrupt opponents and create scoring opportunities makes him an invaluable asset, especially during crucial set pieces.
The White advantage
Ben White‘s intelligence at set pieces have become a talking point in Arsenal‘s title race. His ability to think outside the box, while inside it, and disrupt the opposition goalkeeper is proving to be a significant advantage, adding another weapon to Arsenal‘s already potent attacking arsenal.