Sleek Arsenal win at Fulham

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By David Awopetu

 

Arsenal’s comprehensive victory at Craven Cottage provided confirmation of two things that most observers expected to be true this season. Firstly, that Fulham has some gruelling days ahead. And secondly, that Arsenal’s capture of Willian and Gabriel could prove to be one of the most significant moves of the summer transfer window.

Former Chelsea winger, Willian had a hand in all three goals and Gabriel – a £23m signing from Lille – scored in his first game in English football.

Arsenal’s play was highly impressive, while Fulham caused themselves too many problems at the back.

Both sides have played and won at Wembley – twice for the Gunners – in the 48 days since the last Premier League season finished.

Alexandre Lacazette scored the opener from close range after Willian’s effort was saved.

Centre-back Gabriel then scored from Willian’s corner with his shoulder. Willian, who also hit a post from a free-kick, picked out Pierre-Emerick Aubamayeng with a perfect cross-field ball and the captain curled home Arsenal’s third.

Arteta admitted he was surprised at how well Gabriel played on his first game since March when Ligue 1 was curtailed.

“The boy showed a lot of character and what he can do. He can still improve a lot but he had a really good game.

“Willian knows the league, the country, and is very settled here so I knew his performance would settle straight away.”

Fulham created few chances, with last season’s top scorer, Aleksandar Mitrovic, coming on with only 27 minutes to go and forcing Bernd Leno into a save.

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