Arsenal's week got worse as they crashed out of the FA Cup losing to Sunderland 2-0. It was a poor showing from the away side, who have now been outscored 6-0 in their last two matches.
Fabianski: 7
Not really responsible for either goal, Fabianski had an ok game. Never really put under pressure, he handled crosses and balls in the air fairly well. Overall it was not a bad showing from Arsenal's number two.
Sagna: 5
Sagna was one of Arsenal's defenders who was not completely terrible. But by no means was he playing at the level we know he is capable of playing at. Three months out, he may still not be back in form but for a player of his calibre, much more is expected.
Vermaelen: 5
Often without question, Arsenal's best defender was far from it today. Having to move to left back early on, he never really looked to be comfortable. One of his poorest displays for Arsenal I feel but by no means, was he alone.
Squillaci: 3
Having to come on early to replace Coquelin, Squillaci very much looked like a player who had not seen a lot of action this year. Repeatedly getting beaten at the back saw him as more of a liability than an asset. There was sloppy play all game and it was a reason to celebrate when he actually won the ball.
Djourou: 3
Along with Squillaci, Djourou had a horrible match. From the get go, he was losing the ball at the back and not completing a whole lot of passes. Signed a recent contract extension but after today's display by no means is that reassuring.
Song: 5
Never really able to establish himself, Song had a horrid first half. Constantly losing the ball and rarely ever able to complete a pass, it was not a positive showing at all. He had somewhat of a better showing in the 2nd half but just a poor showing overall for the defensive minded midfielder.
Arteta: 6
Arteta came close with a free kick in the first half but after that he lacked the creative and dependable touch we've come to know from him. He was never able to take control of the midfield and it showed from very early on.
Ramsey: 5
Ramsey has not been having the greatest of seasons and had another lacklustre showing today. He still lacks the creativity and pace to really be a danger in that attacking midfielder role. He will continue to grow and learn but that is of no help to an Arsenal squad that needs much more in that position especially with Van Persie up front by himself.
Gervinho: 6
Gervinho's week got worse as well as he made his return to the squad following the disappointing 2nd place finish at the African Cup of Nations. He was rather quiet for a majority of the game. He had the solid chance in the first half but disappeared often after. It may be a small case of fatigue returning to the strenuous play of the Premier League but Arsenal are in need of much better play from the wings.
Oxlade-Chamberlain: 6
It was a less than impressive showing from the winger who hasn't had many so far. He was never really to set a tempo for himself. Sunderland's defenders did well to prevent him from beating him down the line. Being as young as he is, he will have his share of poor showings. The own goal was a bit tough but that's how the game goes sometimes.
Van Persie: 6
It was a quiet night for the Dutchman as he was never really a threat. The balls were not coming in from the wingers and so he was left to try and create his own shots. He is a much better finisher than he is a creator and so his play relies heavily on the midfield's play which was not there today. I still feel he needs help up top especially with Ramsey playing behind him.
Substitutes:
Walcott: 6
He never really made an impact on the game and his presence was not felt at all. He's had a string of disappointing showings and was never really able to establish a proper rhythm.
Rosicky: 5
I've always felt of the two, Rosicky is a much better option at the attacking midfield position than Ramsey. He has greater pace and is much more experienced. Coming off the bench Saturday there was really no belief that he could change the match. It just appeared to be one of those matches that was lost from the beginning.
Arsenal's tendency to crash out of multiple competitions in a short span continued. If history is any indication of what is to come, their next match may not be any better. The FA Cup was their last chance at a trophy this year and so their concentration now is to finish in the top four.
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