Arsenal picked up their seventh win of the Premier League campaign after a 2-0 victory over Everton at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners dominated proceedings from the off yesterday and opened the scoring through centre-back Ezri Konsa after just seven minutes.
Konsa had a bit of luck as the ball fell to his feet off the post. The 29-year-old capitalised and scored his maiden goal for the English champions.
Arsenal had plenty of chances to double their advantage and eventually did so through Gabriel Magalhaes in the 68th minute, putting the game beyond Everton.
Konsa celebrated his 29th birthday on Friday and got his belated gift with his maiden Gunners goal. He was quick to point that out on Instagram after the victory.
He wrote: “Birthday wishes! First goal for The Arsenal, special feeling.”
Several Arsenal players responded to the post, including midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazil international was impressed by him and commented: ‘Top top’.
Konsa has proved a terrific acquisition since his move from Aston Villa last summer. He has seamlessly adapted to the club’s tactics, partnering Gabriel Magalhaes in central defence.
William Saliba’s injury absence has been felt at times, such as on the away trip to Brighton & Hove Albion, but Konsa has largely filled the void and become an undisputed starter for Arsenal.
He scored his debut Gunners goal yesterday but was also solid defensively. The ex-Villa man completed 95 percent of his passes and won 100 percent of his ground duels (3/3) on the day.
Konsa also won a couple of aerial duels and had the best game of his Gunners career, in our view.
Arsenal have gone level on points with league leaders Manchester City (21) after the win. They are just goal difference behind, having made a better start than the title-winning campaign (19 in eight games).
Next up, the Gunners will face Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup fourth-round away on Tuesday.
Stats from Sofascore.com