Mikel Merino’s stats speak volumes – Arsenal’s three losers in draw vs Sunderland
Arsenal thought they secured all three points until they were denied late on by Sunderland, forcing them to settle for a 2-2 draw.
Granit Xhaka was reunited with Arsenal in a crunch clash at the Stadium of Light as he looked to stop his former side from continuing their strong start to the Premier League season.
The Gunners were without big money signing Viktor Gyokeres through injury as they sought to find alternative avenues to goals.
Yet, the late stoppage time equaliser would have infuriated Mikel Arteta as Football Insider reviews the losers from the shock draw against Sunderland.
Riccardo Calafiori
The Italian had a poor performance by his standards against the Black Cats as Regis Le Bris’ side targeted his defensive frailties.
Riccardo Calafiori committed five fouls, highlighting his lack of discipline on a frustrating day defensively for the Gunners..
Mikel Merino
Deputising in the absence of Gyokeres as the Gunners’ frontman, the Spaniard struggled to impact proceedings.
Mikel Merino did tee up Saka’s equaliser but was also careless with the ball, losing possession 13 times and completing just 70 per cent of his passes.
Arteta will be hoping his Swedish striker is back quickly for Arsenal when the Premier League resumes after the international break.
Gabriel Magalhaes
There weren’t too many bad performers for Arteta’s side yet, his star centre-back wasn’t as decisive with his defending as is usually expected.
Gabriel Magalhaes won just six of his nine duels which is lower than his usual high standards, losing possession on 11 separate occasions.