Premier League 2018-19, Arsenal 2-0 Southampton: 5 Talking points and tactical analysis

#3. Lichtsteiner and Iwobi add to Arsenal’s injury woes

Lichtsteiner hobbled off in the second half

The Gunners enjoyed a comfortable afternoon’s work at the Emirates on Sunday. However, their victory came at a cost as they lost Stephan Lichtsteiner and Alex Iwobi to injury.

The latter was outstanding during his time on the pitch and was at the heart of everything the Gunners did offensively. The Nigerian’s astute positioning dragged the Saints’ defense into uncomfortable areas and he also played a major role in both the goals.

Thus, Emery would hope that the winger isn’t out for too long.

Lichtsteiner, meanwhile, was handed a second consecutive start against Southampton and he looked accomplished in defense. However, he tweaked something in the second half and was replaced by Laurent Koscielny.

Over the course of the season, Ainsley Maitland-Niles has blown more cold than hot and Arsenal’s injury casualties have increased by the minute. Hence, the loss of Lichtsteiner to injury would cause more than a furrowed brow or two for the Spaniard.

And with another defender falling by the wayside, Arsenal and Emery’s decision to not bring in defensive reinforcements looks more naïve with each passing game.