4 conclusions as Arsenal lose to Crystal Palace

#1 Arsenal missed Sokratis

Sokratis brings more to the table than just defensive abilities

It was crystal clear from the very start of the game that Arsenal lacked a tough defender who could win the aerials, make interceptions, and guide his midfielders to position themselves properly.

Captain Koscielny did his job well and the young Greek defender, Dinos, followed his gaffer's instructions to perfection, but Mustafi, with all his experience, yet again failed to lift up the team as he gifted Zaha a goal.

Sokratis brings more to the table than just defensive abilities. The fact that he keeps guiding and shouting at his players to get the best out of themselves helps Arsenal as a team. With his inclusion, Arsenal has conceded only once in their last 7 games, in which he played every single one. Today, the 31-year-old did not play and Arsenal ends up conceding three in a single match.

Arsenal is now level on points with Chelsea on fourth as they squandered a chance to go third, above Tottenham. If Chelsea and Tottenham win their respective games midweek and Arsenal lose to Wolves, it would be a huge blow to Emery's men in their dreams of UCL football, which makes the next game a must-win game.