Arsenal Player Ratings vs. Celtic

Arsenal took the upper hand on their first leg Champions League Play-off, with a 2-0 win over Scottish side Celtic. The Gunners were faced with a tough task but managed to put away two goals and really make it hard for the Scots when they meet Arsenal at the Emirates next week.

Here are the player ratings:

Manuel Almunia: 7 Never looked like being beaten, handled everything that was thrown at him.

Bacary Sagna: 7 Another solid performance. Had the right flank covered and chipped in the attack when he could.

William Gallas: 8 Dominant in the air on the ground, always in control. Scored a neat goal to cap off a strong performance.

Thomas Vermaelen: 8.5 In only his second Arsenal match and yet he looks like he has played for years now. Physically solid and handled the headers well too. A great run to deny a dangerous Celtic attack.

Gael Clichy: 7 Few errors, strong in attack and defence and provided an impressive cross which resulted in an own goal for Celtic.

Alexandre Song: 8 Capped off his strong performance against Everton with another good showing. Broke down the Celtic play with ease and provided great passes for his attackers. Looks to be the year he steps up.

Denilson: 7 A neat performance from the Brazilian. Worked hard on and off the ball and almost got his name on the score sheet.

Cesc Fabregas: 8 Accurate passing, great movement and set up the first goal. Impressive once again from the captain.

Andrei Arshavin: 7 Got involved and looked dangerous at times but was unable to use that Russian magic. Solid European debut for Arsenal

Nicklas Bendtner: 6.5 Failed to get involved and show off the skill he showed against Everton.

Robin van Persie: 7 A constant threat on goal but failed to net any. Passed and ran well and will be eager to get on the score sheet next week.

Substitutes:

Abou Diaby: 6.5 Came on an immediately injected speed and power into the attack.