Arsenal scaled through to the Carabao Cup semi finals after a drab 1-0 win over visiting West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.

Danny Welbeck’s 42nd minute goal proved to be the decider in a spark-less tie against a team managed by David Moyes.

As expected, Wenger featured his second string side against what looked like a far lesser opposition. The only surprise was the presence of Kolasinac at left back instead of Maitland-Niles.

The team put up an average shift but three things to consider:

Another 1-0 win

On Saturday, Arsenal laboured to a 1-0 victory over Newcastle. Ozil scored a great volley but it was Arsenal arsenalling the ball around the Toons’ box from east to west. Lately, the Gunners have had it difficult scoring goals.

2 goals in 3 games is not a good signature. Arsenal will need rake in goals as the festive season begins. It was Welbeck’s first League cup goal since 2009. Walcott missed chances to be on the scoresheet.

Niles For Liverpool

Wenger opted a back four in recent games and Maitland-Niles have been preferred to Kolasinac in the last 2 Premier League games. With Kolasinac featuring in last night League cup victory, it seems Wenger will keep Niles for the Liverpool game on Friday. Is Kolasinac out of the 1st team for now?

“I believe that he is the future. He can play left back, right back and central midfield. He has that sense of one against one, he is very strong, he is very quick, he has very quick recovery runs when he comes back” – Wenger on Niles after the Newcastle win.

Injuries

Aside Cazorla, Arsenal have enjoyed a fair share of no injuries this season. Last night Giroud pulled his hamstring and will be off for about 3 weeks. Coquelin also hobbled off towards the end for what seems like a groin injury.

With the games coming in thick and fast, a full squad will be appreciated to provide the options. Will Lacazette get a run of 90 minutes now?

How did Andy Carroll escape a booking? How was that not a penalty call? Well, through to the semi final, Arsenal will know their opponent today.

Hello Liverpool, hi Chamberlain.

Advertisement