Arsenal kicked off their defence of the FA Cup by beating Newcastle United 2-0 in extra-time.
Simon Collings was at Emirates Stadium to run the rule over the players…
Arsenal
Bernd Leno 7
Was having a quiet evening’s work and then had to make a brilliant save moments before extra-time. Dealt with it well and showed why he is trusted over Alex Runarsson.
Cedric Soares 6
Solid defensively but going forward his game lacked an end product. A few times he got in good positions and his crosses weren’t up to scratch.
David Luiz 8
Back in the side and gave a good showing upon his return. Looked great in possession and was calm and composed at the back.
Pablo Mari 8
The Spaniard is enjoying a good run in the side and is taking his chance with both hands. Solid in the air and coped with threat of Andy Carroll.
Kieran Tierney 8 | Star man
Running out of superlatives for the left-back, who just keeps performing every single week. Going forward he was such a threat and assisted the second goal.
Joe Willock 5
Worked hard in the midfield two, but did not look as effective as he does when playing as a No10. Missed a good chance in the second-half when he headed wide.
Mohamed Elneny 6
Another neat and tidy performance from the Egyptian. Didn’t really put a foot wrong and was steady as ever in the middle of the park.
Nicolas Pepe 6
Plenty of effort and a few bright moments, but you still expect more from a player with his price tag. Another frustrating performance.
Willian 3
Played as a No10 and on the left wing - but just didn’t influence the game at all. Looks a shadow of the player he was at Chelsea last season.
Reiss Nelson 5
Handed a start at late notice after Gabriel Martinelli got injured in the warm-up. Failed to take his chance, though, and was hooked after just over 50 minutes.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 7
Worked tirelessly again and finally got his goal minutes before full-time. A big confidence boost for the captain.
Substitutions
Emile Smith Rowe (Nelson 56’) 8
Off the bench and ended up scoring the opening goal. Performance was full of energy and creativity. Looks a real talent.
Granit Xhaka (Willock 66’) 7
Made a real difference when he came on. Looked to get the ball forward and was incisive with his passing.
Bukayo Saka (Willian 66’) 7
Arsenal missed him badly until he came off the bench. The team’s best attacking player and irreplaceable right now.
Alexandre Lacazette (Pepe 105’) 7
Off the bench and played his hand in the winning goal by flicking the ball on for Smith Rowe to score.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles (Cedric 120’) N/A
Subs not used: Runarsson, Chambers, Nketiah.
