Player Ratings Arsenal vs Crystal Palace: Saka’s star as Holding impresses, but Odegaard uncharacteristically quiet

Bukayo Saka scored twice and Gabriel Martinelli and Granit Xhaka also got on the scoresheet as the Gunners were 4-1 winners.

Palace, playing their first game since Patrick Vieira’s dismissal on Friday, struggled for much of the game, but scored a goal through Jeffrey Schlupp in the second half.

The win puts Arsenal eight points ahead of City at the top of the League in April, but they have played a game more.

Simon Collings was at the Emirates Stadium to watch Arsenal in action…

Aaron Ramsdale 6

Made a good save to stop Odsonne Edouard in the first half, although the offside flag went up afterwards. Almost beaten by a shot from Wilfried Zaha that hit the post.

Ben White 8

After being left out of the England squad this week, the right-back played an excellent game. Won the ball to set up the opening goal, then assisted Saka for the second.

Robert Holding 8

Had only played 17 minutes of Premier League football until today but was sent off due to an injury to William Saliba. Solid in the air and also impressive on the ball.

Gabriel 7

A steady performance from the Brazilian alongside Holding. The only disappointment for him will be the goal that Palace scored.

Oleksandr Zinchenko 7

Typically good in possession, but he actually stood out for his defensive work. Get some good tackles to keep Michael Olise quiet.

Martin Odegaard 6

One of the quieter players today as those around him excelled instead. In the first half a good save from the Palace goalkeeper with a shot from outside the box.

Thomas Partyy 7

Vital to the way Arsenal play and helped them unwind after a shaky start to the game. Excellent ball possession and well distributed play. Finished the game as right back.

Granite Xhaka 8

He has regained some form in recent weeks after a dive earlier this year. Made it two goals in as many games by scoring Arsenal’s third.

Bukayo Saka 9 | Star player

Two goals and an assist from the winger, who was excellent during this win. Chosen Martinelli for the opener and finished both his goals very well.

Leandro Trossard 7

Played as a false nine for most of the game, although he occasionally traded roles with Martinelli. Set up the third objective by playing in Xhaka.

Gabriel Martelli 8

Returned from his missed penalty on Thursday night to open the scoring with a well-taken goal. He carried the ball very well throughout the game and caused many problems for Joel Ward.

Subs

gabriel jesus (before Trossard 65′) 6

A few minutes for the Brazilian when he is fully fit again after four months.

Kieran Tierney (for Zinchenko 65′) 7

A good cameo from the Scot’s bench as he placed Saka’s second.

Jorginho (for White 82′) N/A

Emily Smith Rowe (for Martinelli 82′) N/A

Jacob Kiwior (before Gabriel 86′) N/A

Subs not used: Turner, Vieira, Nelson, Walters.