“Arsenal have got something new which I haven’t seen” - Dion Dublin highlights ‘horrible side’ of Mikel Arteta’s men after win over Southampton
BBC pundit Dion Dublin has spoken about a 'horrible' side being shown by Arsenal after the Gunners' 3-1 win over newly-promoted Southampton. The Gunners maintained their unbeaten record into the second international break of the season after seeing off the stubborn Saints at the Emirates.
Last season's runners-up were made to fight for the three points against former goalkeeper Aaron Ramdsale and his Southampton teammates, and they did so in style. They came from behind to score three times in the second half to take their league tally to 17 points after seven matches.
Former Premier League star Dublin hailed Mikel Arteta's side for their determination and grit which has become part of their team this season. He pointed out that this was a new side to the Arsenal teams of recent years, as he has not seen such fighting spirit from them.
“Arsenal have got something new which I haven’t seen in many years. “This horrible side, the grit and determination – they’re all happy to do it and they’ll muck in. They have the heart this time and they are hurting from over the last couple of years.”
Arsenal have had to battle through varying degrees of adversities in each of their last three league games, but have picked up seven points from those games. Against Manchester City at the Etihad, they went behind before turning the game on its head, and then had to play half the game with ten men. Last weekend against Leicester City, they let slip a two-goal lead but had the belief to end up 4-2 winners.
At their swashbuckliing best, the Gunners were always likely to defeat strugglers Southampton at the Emirates. The nature of their triumph, coming from behind to win at home, enhanced the feel-good atmosphere at the club.
Saka, Havertz excellent as Arsenal down Saints
Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz continued their excellent form for Arsenal as they claimed a comfortable 3-1 win over Southampton. The Gunners extended their unbeaten start to the 2024-25 Premier League season to a seventh game following the triumph.
Southampton weathered a series of Arsenal storms throughout the first half of the contest before going ahead in the 55th minute. On-loan striker Cameron Archer fired the ball into the back of the net to give his side a shock lead at the Emirates.
The home side needed just three minutes to respond, with Saka setting up Havertz to score with a fine effort from the edge of the box. Ten minutes later, substitute Gabriel Martinelli got into the act with a fine finish at the back post after another brilliant Saka cross.
After two assists, Bukayo Saka decided to add his name to the scoresheet with a composed finish inside the box in the 88th minute to round off the scoring. The Gunners ended up as comfortable winners to head into the international break with an unblemished record.