Laurent Koscielny returned from injury this weekend and immediately made an impact, as he kept Saido Berahino quiet and helped Arsenal secure a vital three points with a 1-0 victory against West Bromwich Albion.
The Gunners came into this game on the back of two straight league defeats, against Swansea and Manchester United, which meant a positive performance was a necessity. Whilst Danny Welbeck did the business at the other end scoring the only goal of the game, Koscielny was a rock in the heart of the defence alongside Per Mertesaker- recreating the defensive partnership that kept the most clean-sheets in the league last season.
With Koscienly returning, Arsenal can look ahead to their next seven games in December with a much more positive outlook as this could spell the end of their defensive crisis.
Arsenal defence looks more composed with BFG & Koscielny reunited. 7 games to play in December. Vital they stay fit. pic.twitter.com/Qmm0rnGPqh
— Michael Gooner (@MickTheGooner) November 29, 2014
Mertesacker looked so much better alongside Koscielny. Funny how much difference it makes.
— Culann Davies (@CulannDavies) November 29, 2014
Nice to get another clean sheet. Great to have Koscielny back in Arsenal back four. Martinez looks to have the right temperament. Composed.
— Michael Gooner (@MickTheGooner) November 29, 2014
Monreal goes off injured on the day that Koscielny returns, thus maintaining Arsenal Defensive Crisis Equilibrium (ADCE).
— Jonathan Liew (@jonathanliew) November 29, 2014
Great to have koscielny back as we missed his pace looked very sharp for first game back
— gunner 66 (@AndyButcher66) December 1, 2014
Not even bothered if other team’s fans still don’t rate Koscielny. If he keeps improving our defence drastically I don’t care
— George (@TweetsOfAGooner) December 1, 2014
Koscielny has me all calm and serene watching Arsenal…. Everybody needs a Koscielny in their lives.
— Deria (@DekaDMichael11) November 29, 2014
This is very positive. Team has a better balance with Giroud & Koscielny
— Mostafa (@SolerMostafa) November 29, 2014