Two things we learned: Arsenal 1-3 Manchester United

Manchester United progressed to the fifth round of the FA Cup after they outclassed arch-rivals Arsenal by a 3-1 scoreline at the Emirates Stadium. The Red Devils had come into the game with a seven-match winning streak and they continued the good run of form with Alexis Sanchez, Jesse Lingard and Anthony Martial finding the scoresheet. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted the sole consolation for the Gunners.

Two things we learned:

Alexis Sanchez and Romelu Lukaku make their chance count: Both Alexis Sanchez and Romelu Lukaku has been heavily criticised by the Red Devils supporters this term amid their average showing on the field. However, the duo stepped up against the Gunners with Alexis bagging the opening strike while Lukaku provided two assists – featuring in an unfamiliar right-wing position. Despite the performances, neither player may feature from the off against Burnley in the midweek league action, but they have certainly put their names upfront for a starting opportunity, should one of Anthony Martial or Marcus Rashford suffer a dip in form. The Red Devils will be eyeing a nine successive win under their interim boss in midweek.

Arsenal’s defensive concerns increase: Arsenal’s defensive vulnerabilities have shown no signs of changing under Unai Emery and things got worse on Friday night with both Laurent Koscielny and Sokratis having to leave the field with injuries. The duo had recently formed a bright partnership in the derby triumph over Chelsea and their absence should certainly hamper the side further, given they are already without Rob Holding with a season-ending injury. Shkodran Mustafi and Konstantinos Mavropanos remain the fit and recognised centre-backs for the forthcoming league clash against Cardiff City, although Emery has used Nacho Monreal, Granit Xhaka and Stephan Lichtsteiner on occasions in a makeshift role.

Image – Getty