Arsenal came back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 against north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, with one defender showing his vast improvement.
Goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang either side of half-time saw the Gunners bounce back from their 3-1 defeat away to Liverpool.
Nicolas Pepe teed up the French forward as he took just two touches before blasting past Hugo Lloris in first-half stoppage time.
In the second half, a brilliant cross into the box by Matteo Guendouzi was met by Aubameyang, as he poked past the French shot-stopper.
Arsenal’s star forwards rescued Unai Emery’s side, proving their worth. Lacazette had the second-most shots, as well as winning the most aerial duels in a battling display in the striker role (via WhoScored).
Meanwhile, Aubameyang performed the second-most dribbles and attempted the third-most tackles as he showed his worth on the left flank.
However, it was Ainsley Maitland-Niles that showed just how much he has improved in his time at right-back in 2019.
The 22-year-old Englishman had the third-most touches and the fourth-highest successful passes of any player on the pitch.
He also made the most blocks and clearances for Arsenal in a crucial defensive display as Emery’s side left gaping holes in their backline.
The Guardian also praised the young defender for his maturity and gave him a seven out of 10.
They said: “Steady performance from a player who looks increasingly mature defensively. Early shot blocked.”
With Bellerin still out with injury, Maitland-Niles will look to continue at right-back. Sunday’s performance provides everyone connected with the club with confidence moving forward this season.
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