Talking Tactics: Arsenal v West Ham

Arsenal played West Ham over the weekend in what was a clash of styles with Arsene Wenger’s free flowing attacking philosophy going up against Big Sam’s long ball tactics, tactics that have previously been successful against Arsenal. Arsenal however fought hard (even after going down a goal against the run of play) and came back worthy winners with the game finishing with a scoreline of 3-1 to the Arsenal.
I am Giroud
Going into what would be a physical battle, many were calling for Olivier Giroud to start and lead the line for Arsenal and boy did he deliver on the supporter’s faith by scoring a goal and assisting on another.
The game in essence best captured what Giroud brings to the team. He’s a direct player who can hold up play, link with the midfield, and isn’t afraid to take shots. In all he finished the game with 8 shots (4 on targ...