EPL 2017/18: Watford 2-1 Arsenal: 5 Talking Points

#4 Why didn’t Wenger unleash Jack Wilshere?

Arsenal v Brighton and Hove Albion - Premier League — Jack Wilshere was left on the bench against Watford, angering Arsenal's fans

Although they went into the second half in the lead, it was quite clear from a flat first half that Arsenal were lacking in the creative department. Alexandre Lacazette, Alex Iwobi and Danny Welbeck barely had a goalscoring chance between them in the first 45 minutes thanks to a distinct lack of spark in the middle.

Arsene Wenger attempted to change this in the second half by introducing Mesut Ozil for the injured Welbeck, but although he did set up a chance for Iwobi, his impact wasn’t exactly earth-shattering. Wenger did, however, have Jack Wilshere on the bench. Wilshere is now fit and ready to play and was outstanding in Arsenal’s wins over Doncaster and BATE Borisov.

The fans were chanting his name, but instead of bringing him on when the game was in flux, Wenger instead introduced Rob Holding – a defender. The fans responded by chanting “you don’t know what you’re doing”, and that may well prove to be true if Wenger keeps refusing to gamble on one of his most talented players. Wilshere could’ve won this game for Arsenal.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Shambhu Ajith