Arsenal claimed a crucial victory away at Brighton as they moved closer to the Premier League title by going seven points clear of Manchester City. The Gunners opened the scoring through Bukayo Saka, whose effort from distance took a deflection off Carlos Baleba and squeezed through the legs of Bart Verbruggen. Yet Arsenal were fortunate to go into half-time in front.

Gabriel Magalhaes had to remain resolute at the back for much of the contest, throwing himself into some vital tackles. But the introduction of Kai Havertz proved a pivotal moment in the match, and his influence was essential to the composure that had been absent for the overwhelming majority of the fixture. Express Sport rates and slates the Gunners…

Arsenal player ratings vs Brighton

David Raya – 7

An early error from the Spaniard almost gifted the Gunners a goal. He handled the crosses and deliveries into the area well and he needed to.

Another player who appeared exhausted in this fixture, with Ben White unavailable, where he receives a break is uncertain. But he persisted in battling hard and defended admirably when required.

Having received a yellow card, Fabian Hurzeler was demanding a second caution following another tackle. Did not enjoy a strong performance, and was beaten by Yankuba Minteh for a significant opportunity. Was substituted soon afterwards.

Was forced into some early defensive work, heading away what seemed a certain goal. Delivered another superb sliding block on Mitoma. He slid in to intercept the cross from Minteh which could have also found the back of the net. An outstanding performance that warrants significant praise.

The Ecuadorian has claimed the left-back position as his own and was once again defensively robust. Demonstrated impressive speed and strength at times and when shifted to right centre-half, he adapted brilliantly there too.

Made an early error and took a knock. He appears a shadow of the player we saw in the first half of the season, raising questions about why Christian Norgaard isn’t being utilised more.

A few errors in the first half, and had to recover well after a poor back pass. He seems tired, and doesn’t resemble his usual commanding self but in the second half, he really dug deep to support his team.

Had very little involvement in the first half, and with Arsenal’s long ball strategy, he struggled to get into the game.

Had a fantastic early opportunity, set behind and should have taken the shot instead of the blind cross with no one at the back post. Had no right to score the opening goal but the deflection from distance wrongfooted Verbruggen.

Had only one man to beat for a one-on-one opportunity but was dispossessed. If the long ball is the strategy, the Swede is simply not the player to target with these launches.

Worked the channels but had minimal contact with the ball due to the number of long hopeful balls directed towards the front line.

Substitutes

Kai Havertz – 8

Nearly scored shortly after his introduction as Carlos Baleba made a sliding block on his shot at goal. The German certainly altered the game for the Gunners, getting involved and providing an outlet.

Definitely made an impact after coming on, seeing much more of the ball than his predecessor. Had a fantastic opportunity inside the box but sent it wide.

Was brought on to play at left-back and his presence greatly benefited the Gunners.

Introduced late to replace Martin Zubimendi. Didn’t really get much of the ball.