Southampton 0-2 Arsenal: Premier League – Saints Player Ratings

Strikers and Substitutes

Danny Ings, Striker – 7

Ings’ overall quality has not dropped a bit over the break.  Made a strong defensive block, won possession back two or three times, and has now taken Long’s role out of the air.  When Long entered, he took a more familiar role and linked up with his partner a couple times.  Needed more of the ball and space in this one to get his goal.

Michael Obafemi, Striker – 3

Fairly toothless first half, and got in the way of Ings on more than one occasion. Other than switching the play out to Valery a single time, there was little of note.  May be returned to his third striker role against Watford.

Kyle Walker-Peters, Substitute Right-Back – 6

Entered at half time for the struggling Yan Valery.  Was destroyed by a Saka tackle immediately.  Given loads of opportunity on the ball in the first 15 minutes, but showed little 1v1.  Did deliver a good cross or two during his time, but failed to step with the back line before the second goal was scored.  Still, he earned a start on Sunday, as a clear upgrade in confidence at least to Valery.

Shane Long, Substitute Striker – 6

Part of the halftime double-switch, taking Obafemi’s place.  Found Ings for a volley, but biggest impact came in the 78th minute, when his run was found by Jack Stephens and struck the ball on frame.  Outperformed Obafemi by miles with his half of soccer, and will return to the starting eleven before long.

Jannik Vestergaard, Substitute Centre-Back – N/A

A very late cameo after the dismissal of Stephens, but will be present for the next 3 games for sure.

Oriol Romeu, Substitute Centre-Midfielder – N/A

Came into the middle of the park during stoppage time, but should find himself in the first-team sheet on Sunday.