Arsenal returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-1 win over Aston Villa and although there were a lot of good performances in the game, one name that stood out was Ben White.
The Gunners had a disappointing outing in the Premier League last time around as they could only draw against Crystal Palace. But on Friday night, they bounced back in strong fashion as they appeared sharper and were rewarded with the three points.
Thomas Partey got his first goal for the club and the hosts soon doubled their lead when captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored on the stroke of halftime. A two-goal lead was what the north Londoners deserved after dominating the first half.
The game was settled when Emile Smith Rowe ran onto a pass from the skipper and converted via a deflected finish. The visitors could only score once and that was down to the defensive discipline of the Gunners.
In particular, the combination of White and Gabriel ensured that the Villa attackers could not find any joy. The Englishman was particularly impressive as his passing and composure were key in keeping the team ticking along. This was noticed by the fans who reeled in their praise for the 24-year-old. Here are some of the best reactions:
🏴 Ben White against Aston Villa:
🧠 94% Pass Accuracy
💪 100% Ground Duels
😎 100% Aerial Duels
🎯 2/3 Long Balls
✋ 2 Blocked Shots
🛑 2 Interceptions
🚀 3 ClearancesHis best performance in a Arsenal shirt so far. 👊 pic.twitter.com/UodtsfyyW6
— Mozo Football (@MozoFootball) October 22, 2021
If Ben White hasn’t impressed you so far this season, then I’m really not sure what you expect from a CB. He’s been quality and will only get better and better
— 4 The Arsenal (@4TheArsenal_) October 22, 2021
It’s strange to praise a defender when you’re winning 3-0, but Ben White has been immense.
Almost everyone has, in fairness.
— Pain In The Arsenal (@PainInThArsenal) October 22, 2021
Ben White is a top defender. He is a fantastic signing. So good on the ball and please let’s not underestimate the interceptions he makes – really good at coming out and winning the ball. And that ‘aerial weakness’ people speak about is a massive exaggeration.
— LTArsenal™ (@ltarsenal) October 22, 2021
ben white has most definitely been better than varane this season
— ⛱ (@GP1886) October 22, 2021
Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White and Gabriel have all been top notch this season.
— Eduardo Hagn (@EduardoHagn) October 22, 2021
Arsenal Fever View:
There were a lot of questions being asked when Arsenal signed Ben White for a big fee. But despite a tough start against Brentford, White has recovered brilliantly to show his range of skills.
The partnership between the centre-back and his Brazilian counterpart is a major reason why the north Londoners have been able to get back to winning ways. After a tough start to the season, Mikel Arteta will be happy with how his players have responded. They currently sit not too far away from the top of the table.
Arsenal will now turn their focus towards the EFL Cup where they will be at home to Leeds United. With the confidence taken from Friday’s result, they would be positive about their chances of beating Marcelo Bielsa’s team. The Gunners have shown that they can perform well when needed and with the likes of White with them, good things can happen.
Read More: Mikel Arteta admits he’s trying to get the best out of Arsenal star
