Arsenal 0-0 Sporting Lisbon: 5 Hits and Flops

#1 Hit: Henrikh Mkhitaryan

Mkhitaryan in action during Arsenal's goalless draw - where he could have had a goal and assist

This was the type of game that would either hinder or help boost Mkhitaryan's confidence levels, after an underwhelming start to the campaign for the Armenian. He has often been on the periphery this season and managed to drift in-and-out of games with a worrying regularity at times, which was also the case here.

However, it was still a determined display by a creative midfielder with something to prove - in a competition that has produced his best football during his tenure in England to date. He was regularly being challenged by Marcos Acuna down the right, their battles made for interesting viewing.

Just like most, he drifted out of the game after Welbeck's injury but returned in the second-half with more verve and a desire to create Arsenal's opener. It was his surging run into space on the edge of the box which created Aubameyang's first goalscoring chance just seconds after the restart. The weight of pass was perfect but his teammate failed to make the most of things.

He had a shot saved late on after good work by Alex Iwobi, though he wouldn't have known much about it after a reactionary flick - instead of an actual shot - saw Ribeiro comfortably hold the ball.

He didn't get on the ball as much as he probably should have, though that's partly to do with the fact that he's being shifted out onto the wing. His best position remains in a number ten role, but as Emery's preference for 4-3-3 is evident, he has been forced to adapt and embrace his defensive responsibilities more while doing so.

Two key passes, 88% pass accuracy, one completed dribble, fouled twice, two tackles and three interceptions on a busy evening for Mkhitaryan - an all-round good display from someone who is aware he can continue to improve further, and must, if he wants to retain his starting berth.