So much for bogey teams. In a week Arsenal have banished the demons of their poor recent record at Newcastle and here against Olympiakos, it was West Ham’s turn to feel the force as Arsenal laid down the gauntlet in the title race with a convincing victory.
Other than the concerning sight of first Martin Ødegaard and then opening goalscorer Declan Rice having to be replaced due to injuries, this was a most satisfying afternoon for Mikel Arteta on his 300th match in charge. While 16% of Arsenal’s goals under the Spaniard have come from set-pieces – a figure surpassed only by Tony Pulis and Sam Allardyce of those who have managed that many games in the Premier League – they showed they are still capable of breaking down teams who come to defend with a low block as well.
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