Arsenal extended their winning streak to eight after a 3-0 win over Qarabag FK in Azerbaijan. It was the Gunner’s second Europa League match of the season and there were notable highlights from the game.

Although the red on red looked a bit weird to me, Emery’s decision to play a back three didn’t really go as planned. The Qarabags (I like the name. Maybe it is the “Q” or the “bags”) had their moments.

Sokratis Papa (I am not in a spelling bee), Emile Smith-Rowe and Matteo Guendouzi scored their first goals for Arsenal. Soks got the opening goal before ESR doubled Arsenal’s lead in the second half with an Iwobi assist for a goal made at Hale End. Guendouzi scored the third with Lacazette the provider. Welbeck missed out the opportunity to score a 4th.

Iwobi had a great game and is enjoying his games now. Criticized last season, the Nigerian international is getting back to his groove. Young Emile is making waves and that goal will earn him enough courage to push for more.

Cech will be out for four weeks but Leno was in goal against Qarabag. I had thought Martinez would man the post but Emery is taking no chances. The Spanaird featured Monreal, Lacazette and Ozil – key members of the squad. Risky? I am sure Ramsey and Aubameyang would have made the trip if not for family and health issues respectively. Mkhi missed out for political reasons.

Irrespective of who was in goal, Arsenal kept a third consecutive clean sheet. With the 8th win, we can feel the momentum. Can we stretch it to nine? A London derby at Craven Cottage stands in the way.

Emery is on a run. He seems to love the Europa League and he is taking it serious. He has been nominated as Premier League of the September. Do well to vote for him.

Oh, did we sign the Azerbaijani cat?

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