Three things we learnt from Arsenal’s comfortable win over Basel

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A double from Theo Walcott secured Arsenal’s first win of the season in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.

Basel were over-run by the Gunners midfield who could have been out of sight by half-time, only being denied by great goal-keeping and poor finishing combined.

The win keeps Arsenal on course to finish top of Group A, something that is vital that Arsene Wenger’s side achieve in order to get further in the competition.

Here’s three things we learnt from the fixture:

Theo Walcott’s form has drastically improved

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From being one of the players Arsenal fans wanted to be dropped the most to one of the first names on the team-sheet, Walcott has made a significant contribution to the Gunners good start to the season. Tonight’s two well taken goals, four shots and two chances created were in part down to the Englishman’s sublime work ethic and will to run in behind. In the first half alone, it seemed that Theo was constantly on the ball causing havoc to the Basel back-line.

Subbed to a standing ovation, the winger has allowed fans to see the standard that is expected of him week in, week out. Four goals in his last three is a real platform to build from, if he is to finally have a season to live long in the memory.

Arsenal start with real intensity

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For the second game in a row, the Gunners have seemingly almost finished the game by half-time. Three up against Chelsea by the break, and two against Basel, although it should have been much more. Arsene Wenger’s side had 12 shots and created 10 chances against the opposition in the first half alone, picking off from how they started against Chelsea.

Once again the tactic worked, and Arsenal played a second half where the game was practically over and players could begin to rest their legs. Wenger will be wanting some more ruthlessness in front of goal in order to make these matches much more secure in the future however, with a total of 19 shots altogether throughout the match.

Alexis can have off-nights in front of goal

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It just wasn’t to be for the newly-formed striker. The Chilean summed up his evening by kicking the advertising boards and screaming in frustration, unable to beat the Basel goal-keeper who got to every effort the striker had. In truth, Alexis was electric, and his closing down and ability on the ball was central to every attack, but it was just one-of-them nights in terms of finishing off his chances.

Featured Image: All rights reserved by Stuart MacFarlane