2. Bellerin starting to blossom
One of the criticisms Arsene Wenger has had to contend with this season, has been the club’s lack of defenders. The Gunners started the season with just six senior defenders and injuries early on forced them into playing Hector Bellerin. The 19-year-old was thrust into the spotlight early in his Arsenal career.
While his pace was very evident early on, his defensive discipline was a concern for the Gunners who didn’t anyone else to play at right back. But as the season has gone on, Bellerin has shown just why Wenger rates him so highly. In his previous games, the Spaniard has shown his tenacious tackling ability, but against Aston Villa, it was going forward that he shone through. Whether it was provide crosses for Giroud, or play neat passes near the edge of the box, the Spaniard did it with consummate ease. He capped off a wonderful performance with a goal that will put many strikers to shame, as he side-footed the ball into the net from outside the box in stoppage time.