Watford 2-2 Arsenal: 5 talking points | Premier League 2019/20

#3 Playing out from the back

Should Rob Holding replace either of Sokratis or David Luiz?

Innovative or deluded? This season, the Premier League ushered in a revolutionary new rule in which defenders are now allowed in their own box from a goal kick. The rule encourages teams to play out from the back, something the Gunners already pride themselves in. However, at Vicarage Road this philosophy cost Arsenal a precious goal. Watford sensed the Gunners insistence on playing short passes out from the back and readied themselves at every goal kick.

In the 53rd minute, Bernd Leno passed to his 1 yard to Sokratis who then felt like it was a good idea to pass to a surrounded Matteo Guendouzi, leading to a Deulofeu interception and game-changing Tom Cleverley goal. This goal swung the momentum of the game completely into Watford’s favour. Once again, individuals’ errors have cost Arsenal points, leaving Emery’s men seven points behind Liverpool, already.