Gary Neville has criticised one aspect of Arsenal’s performance in the 4-1 North London derby victory against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday afternoon.
It was ultimately an easy day at the office for the Gunners against their bitter rivals, with Eberechi Eze, who Tottenham were keen on signing in the summer, scoring a hat-trick, after Leandro Trossard opened the scoring in the first half.
Speaking after the game, Jamie Carragher admitted he underestimated just how important Eze would end up being for Mikel Arteta’s side, who put in a fantastic all-round performance to move six points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
However, a fellow Sky Sports pundit wasn’t particularly impressed with one aspect of Arteta’s side’s performance…
Gary Neville criticises Arsenal's set-pieces against Tottenham
Arsenal have been phenomenal from set-pieces this season, with Gabriel looking particularly impressive in the opposition penalty area, picking up two goals and three assists in all competitions.
However, while Neville was complimentary of the overall display, the 50-year-old has suggested the Gunners weren’t quite as threatening from dead-ball situations against Tottenham as they have been previously.
Arteta’s side proved they have what it takes to end the long wait for a Premier League title with their performance on Sunday, limiting their opponents to an xG of just 0.07, with only a Richarlison wonder goal catching them out.
Eze certainly sent out a major statement with his performance too, receiving a SofaScore match rating of 10 after scoring a hat-trick and making a number of other key contributions.
Eberechi Eze’s key statistics vs Tottenham
Number completed
Big chances created
1
Duels (won)
10 (7)
Interceptions
2
Tackles
2
Arsenal also displayed that they aren’t one dimensional, with none of their goals coming from set-pieces, and they managed to cope despite having a number of important players out injured, namely Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel.
As such, Arteta will no doubt be confident his side can go on to have a successful season, but there are some tricky fixtures on the horizon, taking on FC Bayern in the Champions League on Wednesday, prior to a trip to second-placed Chelsea at the weekend.
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