Partnership: Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard were once again the stars of the show for Arsenal against West Ham
Action Images via Reuters
Arsenal moved up to second place in the Premier League thanks to a thumping 5-2 win at West Ham.
During a frantic first half, the Gunners scored five goals and the Hammers managed two of their own as well.
Bukayo Saka, Gabriel, Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard and Martin Odegaard were all on the scoresheet for Arsenal, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Emerson struck for the hosts.
The win means Mikel Arteta’s side now sit second in the Premier League and six points off leaders Liverpool, who host Manchester City on Sunday.
Simon Collings was at the London Stadium to see Arsenal in action...
David Raya 6
Could not do much about either of West Ham’s goals, especially Emerson’s stunning free-kick. Made a sharp save from another Emerson free-kick just before the break.
Jurrien Timber 7
Enjoying a run in the team at right-back. Made some strong runs forward at points and combined well with Saka.
William Saliba 6
Outshone by Gabriel’s goal rush continuing. Made some big blocks in the second half, but almost caught out late on lunging for a ball that Danny Ings put just wide.
Gabriel 8
Opened the scoring by powering home yet another header from a corner. Won the penalty that Saka converted just before half-time, but was then forced off at the break.
Riccardo Calafiori 6
A solid performance from the Italian, who tucked into midfield and combined well with Jorginho. Slight concern after he went off before 60 minutes.
Martin Odegaard 9
Arsenal have scored 14 goals in four games since he returned to the starting lineup. Running out of words for how good he is. Bagged a goal by scoring a penalty.
Jorginho 8
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Handed a rare start with Mikel Merino and Thomas Partey both injured. Did an excellent job at the base of midfield and brought some control amid the chaos.
Declan Rice 7
Back at his old stomping ground and was treated to a few boos early on. A few lung-busting runs suggested he is over the broken toe that hampered him earlier this month.
Bukayo Saka 9 | Star player
Another magnificent performance from the winger. Two assists and a goal, while he also won the penalty that Odegaard converted. Unplayable.
Kai Havertz 7
Scored Arsenal’s fourth during a bonkers first half. Played in by Trossard and he finished coolly when one-on-one with Lukasz Fabianski.
Leandro Trossard 8
Looks back to his best after a poor run of form earlier this season. Scored here and set up Arsenal’s fourth, too.
Subs
Jakub Kiwior (Gabriel 45’) 7
On for the second half and was steady. Helped Arsenal keep West Ham out.
Oleksandr Zinchenko (Calafiori 56’) 6
On earlier than expected but was solid in and out of possession.
Gabriel Jesus (Odegaard 74’) N/A
Raheem Sterling (Saka 74’) N/A
Ethan Nwaneri (Trossard 84’) N/A
Subs not used: Neto, Nichols, Tierney, Martinelli