STATS: Cazorla covering most ground for Arsenal vs Sidwell’s defensive work for Fulham

Arsenal v Fulham, Saturday 15:00

Arsenal fell victim to the skills of their former star striker Robin van Persie as they were dominated in a 2-1 defeat away to Man Utd. The continued return to fitness of midfielder Jack Wilshere, despite his second-half dismissal, was one of the few bright spots in a poor showing from Arsenal, who grabbed a late consolation through Santi Carzola.

Carzola has been one of the Arsenal players to gain praise from the critics this season, and he teamed a technically good performance against Man Utd with a fantastic work ethic. He covered 7.05 miles against Man Utd, the 8th highest total from a player this season

Santi Carzola’s mileage was also the highest from any Arsenal player, while the 64.45 miles covered by Arsenal as a team was their best performance of the season.

Mikel Arteta could do with improving the consistency of his defensive duties. He’s been pulled up by the referee 22 times this season, more than any other Arsenal player.

Prior to his injury, Kieran Gibbs was doing more than enough to enhance his international credentials. He has a tackle success rate of 85%.

Fulham denied Everton all three points last time out, as a last ditch equalizer gave them a point in a match where they were largely outclassed by the Merseyside opponents. Mark Schwarzer kept the Cottagers in the match for large parts of the game, with Martin Jol’s side showing a certain grit if lacking in quality on the day.

Schwarzer made 12 saves in the game in total, the most by a keeper in any single match this season.

Bryan Ruiz clocked up the most miles last time out against Everton, running for 6.28 miles.

Steve Sidwell has been excellent in defence for Martin Jol so far this campaign. His 22 successful tackles I the highest of any Fulham players according to the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index.

John Arne Riise showcased against Everton that he still has plenty of speed to deal with the best the Premiership has to offer. He was The Cottager’s quickest player on the day, being clocked at 20.45mph by the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index.