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Arsenal player ratings vs Brighton: Kai Havertz reborn while Jorginho proves King of control

Jorginho impressed for Arsenal again (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Jorginho impressed for Arsenal again (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal moved back to the top of the Premier League with a victory at Brighton.

Bukayo Saka opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first-half after Gabriel Jesus was brought down in the box.

The Gunners then doubled their lead in the second-half when Kai Havertz finished off Jorginho’s cut-back.

The win - and top spot - was then secured late on when substitute Leandro Trossard made it 3-0 to Arsenal.

Simon Collings was at the Amex to see Arsenal in action...

David Raya 7

Made a brilliant save just before half-time to deny Julio Enciso’s curling effort. Was largely untroubled other than that.

Ben White 6

Back at his old club and put in a solid display. Made some great runs forward on the overlap in the first-half.

William Saliba 7

Nullified the threat of former Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck, who didn’t get a sniff. Another solid performance from the Frenchman.

Gabriel 6

Missed a glorious chance after one minute when he headed wide from a free-kick. Passing a bit sloppy in the first-half.

Oleksandr Zinchenko 6

Typically involved in a lot of Arsenal’s build-up play as he looked to get on the ball. Still had the odd heart-in-mouth moment defensively, though.

Martin Odegaard 7

At the heart of so much of Arsenal’s good play and unlucky to not get on the scoresheet himself. Seems to be peaking as the run-in begins.

Jorginho 8

Back in the team and brought control to the midfield. He should be tasked with a similar role against Bayern Munich on Tuesday. Setup Arsenal’s second goal. The King of Control.

Declan Rice 7

A quieter afternoon for the England star, who was used in an advanced role again. Enjoyed a good battle with Brighton youngster Carlos Baleba.

Bukayo Saka 7

Back in the team after missing the win over Luton with a muscle issue. His penalty means he has now scored 30 goals and assists combined this season.

Kai Havertz 8 | Star player

Even with Jesus back, he is keeping his spot as Arsenal’s No9 - and deservedly so. Scored Arsenal’s second and setup their third. Looks reborn since leaving Chelsea.

Havertz is in fine form for the Gunners (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Havertz is in fine form for the Gunners (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Gabriel Jesus 6

Should have come away from this with a goal. Missed two good headed chances in either half. Defensively excellent, though.

Substitutions

Leandro Trossard (Jesus 64’) 7

Wrapped up the win with a brilliant finish after racing clear from the halfway line.

Gabriel Martinelli (Saka 64’) 6

Handed a rare outing on the right wing.

Takehiro Tomiyasu (Zinchenko 72’) N/A

Eddie Nketiah (Havertz 89’) N/A

Fabio Vieira (Odegaard 89’) N/A

Subs not used: Ramsdale, Kiwior, Partey, Smith Rowe.