Takehiro Tomiyasu was Arsenal’s unsung hero vs Liverpool
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Takehiro Tomiyasu produced a delightful performance as Arsenal registered a 3-2 Premier League win over Liverpool on Sunday.
The Japanese star made a surprise start at left-back ahead of Kieran Tierney, but made the opportunity count with a superb and resolute defensive display.
Tomiyasu completely saw off the threat from Mohamed Salah and there were no surprises that the Egyptian was subbed off shortly after the hour mark.
The former Bologna man has played second fiddle to Ben White at right-back this term, but today’s showing suggests that he could be very useful at left-back.
Tomiyasu, who is strong with both feet, was terrific against the Reds, winning seven duels and three tackles. He also made six clearances over 90 minutes.
Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus will definitely earn most of the plaudits but in our view, Tomiyasu was the unsung hero in the victory.
Keeping Salah quite over an hour at the Emirates was essential to picking up maximum points.
Arsenal’s 3-2 triumph has taken them back to the top of the Premier League summit.
They are only one point ahead of second-placed Manchester City, but the victory over Liverpool should provide plenty of trust and belief within the squad.
Taking about winning the title appears far-fetched at the moment but if the players can continue to perform at the same rate, it could be a real possibility.
With City and Erling Haaland in exceptional form, Arsenal will need to be almost perfect for the entire season to pile on the pressure on the league holders.
For that they will need squad depth. Compared to last season, the squad definitely looks stronger with the new signings definitely making a huge impact so far.
Arsenal return to Premier League action at Leeds United next weekend. Before that, they have a Europa League group stage game at Bodo/Glimt on Thursday.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and SofaScore.com