I was truly impressed by his performance yesterday. Arteta isn’t helping us, and we have this kind of talent on the bench when we’re having trouble scoring. The one Arsenal player who truly impressed Patrick Viera last night is revealed. Not Sterling, not Gabriel
Arsenal easily defeated Preston 3-0 on the road to advance to the Carabao Cup quarterfinals.
Tommy Setford, a summer acquisition, made his goal debut while Ethan Nwaneri was given a start. With Martin Odegaard still injured, Jorginho led the team out as captain.
After dominating from the start, the Gunners were rewarded twenty-five minutes in when Gabriel Jesus scored the first goal with a brilliantly executed half-volley.
Mikel Arteta’s team quickly doubled their lead when Nwaneri scored his third senior goal for the team eight minutes later with a stunning curling effort into the top corner. Arsenal had a commanding 2-0 advantage at the break.
Substitute Kai Havertz gave his team a third goal 12 minutes into the second half when he put his head on the end of a brilliant cross from Jakub Kiwior.
The hosts improved late on and put some pressure on the Gunners but could not break through as Arteta’s side held out to keep a clean sheet.
Arsenal strolled to a well-earned victory over Preston, showcasing an excellent team effort.
These are the ratings for the Arsenal players from their Carabao Cup victory on Wednesday.
Arsenal player ratings: Preston 0–3
Defenders and the goalkeeper
GK Tommy Setford: 6/10 Almost never tested, but had to make a save late in the second. While on the ball, he appeared calm, but occasionally his location was dubious. Overall, a relatively comfortable debut between the sticks.
Jurrien Timber (RB) – 7/10 – Continued at right-back despite injury fears. Got up the pitch well and constantly made himself an option. Did not have to do much at the back and was taken off at the halfway point.
William Saliba (CB) – 7/10 – Rarely troubled at the back and did his job well when required. Solid domestic return for the Frenchman.
Jakub Kiwior (CB) – 8/10 – Took the lack of defensive requirements as a good opportunity to get up the pitch. Assisted the opener and played a brilliant cross for Havertz to head in the third. Drifted out to left back throughout and did well overall.
Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB) – 7/10 – Back in the team and looked good as he drifted into midfield. Had plenty of involvement and linked up with his teammates well. Replaced with just under half an hour remaining.
