This was emphatic proof that Arsenal have been the best team in the Premier League over the second half of the season, but Arsene Wenger cannot afford to sit back. He must build from a position of strength this summer and recruit more quality, adding to what he has got already. Notoriously a cautious spender, Wenger needs at least one centre-half, another striker and a proven goalkeeper (Petr Cech?) if he is to mount a genuine challenge for the title next season. Arsenal supporters will not welcome another “close but no cigar” campaign.
Wilshere must play for England U21s this summer
After a campaign ravaged by injury, Arsenal and England will have been relieved to see Jack Wilshere named on the bench here and he came on 22 minutes from time. He has not played since November, after persistent ankle problems which have damaged Arsenal’s hopes of presenting Chelsea with more of a challenge to the title. After such a frustrating season, it would be worthwhile him playing for the U21s this summer, if fit. He is still eligible to play due to Uefa rules and it would provide him with welcome game time ahead of next season. Whether Gareth Southgate opts to select him is, of course, another point entirely.
Mutiny towards extortionate ticket prices growing
Before the game kicked off Arsenal’s travelling supporters unfurled a banner reading “£5bn and what do we get? £64 a ticket”. Liverpool boycotted the club’s visit to the KC Stadium last week and this was further evidence of the mutinous mood among football supporters across the country. With such vast amounts of money being pumped into the game at the top level, something has to change or clubs and the Premier League risk losing the next generation of fans.
Sanchez can end debut season with Golden Boot
Sanchez has been a revelation since his £30million move last summer and has 24 goals in all competitions, including two here at the KC Stadium. He now has 16 Premier League goals to his name, taking him six behind Sergio Aguero, and the Chile international has four games left to chase down the Manchester City striker. Winning the Golden Boot may appear remote, but with Arsenal’s remaining games at the Emirates against Swansea, Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion there is certainly a slim chance.
Goal difference could prove pivotal for Hull
Suddenly Hull’s game against Burnley on Saturday has taken on even more significance after this first half mauling. After conceding three times in the opening 45 minutes they dropped below Leicester in the table on goal difference and this could have severe ramifications for their survival fight. Steve Bruce even introduced David Meyler at half-time for Jake Livermore, a decision which looked influenced by damage limitation. Stephen Quinn’s second-half header, though meaningless in the context of this game, could prove vital later this month.
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