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Southampton vs. Arsenal: FA Cup – Saints Player Ratings

By Erik Franzo

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 23: Kyle Walker-Peters of Southampton is congratulated by team-mate Theo Walcott after his shot is deflected by Gabriel of Arsenal to concede an own goal during Southampton v Arsenal, The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round, on January 23, 2021 in Southampton, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 23: Kyle Walker-Peters of Southampton is congratulated by team-mate Theo Walcott after his shot is deflected by Gabriel of Arsenal to concede an own goal during Southampton v Arsenal, The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round, on January 23, 2021 in Southampton, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images) /
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Southampton’s English midfielder Theo Walcott (R) (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images)
Southampton’s English midfielder Theo Walcott (R) (Photo by BEN STANSALL/AFP via Getty Images) /

Midfielders

James Ward-Prowse, Centre-Midfielder – 8

Won the first, second ball, as he typically does and just missed Jack Stephens on his first free kick within 3 minutes.  Almost pulled off a sensational goal direct from a corner on the right side.  Drove a free kick in identical position to the one he scored versus Shrewsbury wide of his mark.  Maybe witnessed tired legs for the first time as this game drew to a close, but the captain played his role well and got the job done.

Ibrahima Diallo, Centre-Midfielder – 8

Diallo contributed two strange giveaways from floated first time chips in the opening 30 minutes.  He played the majority of this period off the ball, but these were indecisive moments of note.  A great bit of cover on a Pepe break opened the second half.  He closed the game looking fresher than the majority of his teammates and is making it very hard on Hasenhuttl to choose between he and Romeu once the Spaniard returns.

Stuart Armstrong, Attacking-Midfielder – 8

Started the press leading to the opener immediately after closing out an initial Arsenal build out.  Was on the end of a number of miss-hit passes from the opponent as Armstrong showed an excellent sense of anticipation today.  Never really threatened goal and Theo Walcott missed him wide open on the penalty mark.  Stu is best when his legs are fresh and they were today, but they won’t be Tuesday.

Theo Walcott, Attacking-Midfielder – 5

Took longer than usual to get into this game with a few miss-hit passes, one, a notable cross with two players open at the back post.  Almost nothing came off for him there on after and it could have been because of a knock brought on by Willian.  Walcott appeared mentally drained for whatever reason and could not keep up with the pace, even with so much of it in his legs.  Chalk it up to an off day, or a match against his old club, whatever it may be, we were grateful to have him close out the game with his plethora of experience.