Friends reunited in Arsenal victory
LONDON: Arsene Wenger says the instinctive understanding between old friends PierreEmerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan can transform Arsenal’s turbulent season.
Aubameyang marked his Arsenal debut with a goal in Saturday’s 5-1 demolition of Everton, while Mkhitaryan provided three assists in his first start for the Gunners.
The swaggering show from the former Borussia Dortmund team-mates was a much-needed boost for Arsenal boss Wenger after a difficult January that saw Alexis Sanchez force through a move to Manchester United, while the north Londoners struggled on the pitch.
Gabon striker Aubameyang joined from Dortmund on deadline day for a club record £56 million, reuniting with Armenia midfielder Mkhitaryan, who arrived earlier in the window from United in a swap deal for Sanchez. While Aaron Ramsey scored his first career hat-trick against Everton, it was the promising partnership between Aubameyang and Mkhitaryan that stole the show.
“Overall, the two players integrated well into our game and they looked as if they had played for us forever,” said Wenger.
“They have similar qualities to what our game is about. Technically, they are good. They are quick and overall it was a first convincing performance.”
Aubameyang was a constant menace with his pace and energy and, while his goal was fortunate
They have similar qualities to what our game is about. Technically, they are good. They are quick and overall it was a first convincing performance. ARSENE WENGER, On Aubameyang and Mkhitaryan
given he was offside when he ran onto Mkhitaryan’s pass, there was enough quality on display to suggest he may keep the misfiring Alexandre Lacazette on the bench for the foreseeable future.
“The quality of his movement and finishing was excellent. He gives problems to defenders with his movement, he is always look- ing to go into spaces that are difficult to cover,” Wenger said.
“When he gets ahead it is hard to catch him. When we understand him better we can make more of that. He is not at his best physically and still has some work to do on that, but the price is reasonable I think, overall for that quality of striker in today’s market.”
NEWCASTLE HELD
LONDON : Newcastle remain mired in the battle for Premier League survival after Crystal Palace salvaged a 1-1 draw in Sunday’s clash at Selhurst Park.
Rafael Benitez’s side took a first half lead through Mohamed Diame, but a Luka Milivojevic penalty soon after the interval forced Newcastle to settle for a point. The Magpies are only one point above the relegation zone in 16th place after failing to win for a fourth consecutive league match. Palace are two points ahead of Newcastle.