Arsenal succumbed to a wretched 3-0 defeat against Crystal Palace. The loss leaves the Gunners level on points with Tottenham Hotspur in 4th, with the Lilywhites having played a game more, but with a superior goal difference and a vital North London derby on the horizon. Nothing seemed to click for Arsenal on Monday night, but why? Was it a hangover from the international break?

There have been a number of disjointed performances after players have returned from national team duty. It has been pinpointed on this platform that this might be a potential obstacle for Arsenal. What in particular from this game did we learn?  Here are three key takeaways from the match.

 

Lack of depth in key areas proving a Killer Blow

If there was one area of the pitch, you might’ve thought Arsenal would have enough to deal with lack of availability. It is full back. Whatever is said about Tierney and Tomiyasu, there are at least physical bodies to back them up. The thing about reserve players is that when they are over exposed it can lead to bad showings.

 

Break the Central linkages, you break the Gunners.

 

Who have been the most influential Arsenal players over the last two months? You would probably say Thomas Partey, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka. Crystal Palace did their homework. They found a way to keep those players quiet. The profile of the Crystal Palace players was athletic and devastating in transition.

 

Patrick Vieira wants the Arsenal job

Patrick Vieira is an Arsenal legend. The Frenchman will feel he is getting the respect he finally deserves. He has led a Crystal Palace team that were annual relegation candidates under Roy Hodgson to the verge of an FA cup final and the prospect of a top half finish. There has been a regeneration and freshness that has been eye-catching in South London.