Arsenal 1 West Brom 0: Player ratings

Arsenal

Wojciech Szczesny Rarely tested but did well to deny Dorrans and Amalfitano. 6/10

Bacary Sagna Illustrated what the Gunners will miss if he departs, with good all-round display. 7

Per Mertesacker Solid performance from the dependable German. 6

Laurent Koscielny Comfortable afternoon for the defender. Made crucial interventions when called up to do so. 6

Nacho Monreal Afforded freedom to go forward on a regular basis to trouble Dawson. 7

Mathieu Flamini Acted as an effective barrier in front of the defence. 6

Mikel Arteta Quiet game for the former Everton man as he failed to make an impact. 5

Santi Cazorla Drifted in from his position on the right-hand side to great effect and was unlucky not to get on the score sheet. 7

Mesut Ozil Involved on a regular basis but final bill was often lackadaisical. Missed good opportunity to double the advantage. 6

Lukas Podolski Rattled the woodwork with mishit effort. Always provided an outlet. 6

Olivier Giroud (Man of the match) Powerful header proved to be the winner. Tireless work rate helped to build attacks. 8

Substitutes

Kim Kallstrom Could have opened account with headed effort but misjudged it completely. 6

Tomas Rosicky Made no contribution to game. 5

Thomas Vermaelen N/A

West Bromwich Albion

Ben Foster Made a number of crucial saves to keep the visitors in it. 6

Craig Dawson Looked uncomfortable in full-back role and wasn’t given a minute’s respite. Wasted chances to net at other end. 5

Diego Lugano In first league game since February, veteran Uruguayan stood up to everything thrown at him. 6

Jonas Olsson Poor clearance gifted opportunity to Podolski. Comfortable otherwise. 6

Chris Brunt Skipper performed well in unfamiliar full-back role. Performed defensive duties solidly. 6

Morgan Amalfitano One-on-one chance with keeper was a rare contribution from Frenchman. 5

Youssof Mulumbu Wasn’t alive to danger from set piece that led to winner. Failed to make an impact. 4

James Morrison Quiet game for the Scot as he struggled to make his mark on proceedings. 5

Graham Dorrans Overshadowed by opposite numbers. Tasked with taking majority of corners but delivery was often poor. 5

Stephane Sessegnon Offered little support to strike partner and wasn’t allowed an opportunity to use his pace. 5

Saido Berahino Looked lively but didn’t make the most of chances that came his way. 6

Substitutes

Victor Anichebe N/A

Matej Vydra N/A