Arsenal Player Ratings vs. Sunderland

The absence of Robin van Persie was evident as Arsenal lacked their usual threatening attacking force in their 1-0 defeat to Sunderland. The loss was Arsenal first this season in which they did not find the back of the net.

The loss also means Arsenal drop back down to third and are in danger of losing touch with Chelsea and Manchester United.

Player Ratings

Manuel Almunia: 6— Was rarely troubled and could really do nothing about the goal.

Bacary Sagna: 7— As per usual was a strong defensive force but his attacking was a little lackluster as to many crosses were astray.

William Gallas: 6.5— Dealt reasonably well with the Sunderland attack and did dominated the air proceedings.

Thomas Vermaelen: 6.5— Caught out on a few occasions, but overall was solid when called upon.

Armand Traore: 6— A yo-yo like performance from the youngster. At times his pace and balance were too much for the Sunderland defence and the Frenchman had a few half chances for goals. However, his defensive performance lacked what Kieran Gibbs and Gael Clichy have given and was lucky that he was not punished when out of position.

Alexandre Song: 8— The Cameroonian was easily Arsenal best. A tireless worker in both defence and attack. Song tracked back superbly and was also there when a Sunderland attack became to look threatening. In attack, he did well on occasions to open up play and provide vital passes.

Cesc Fabregas: 6— Maybe the absence of van Persie got to the Captian as it was not one of his best considering the form he is providing. Was not shy to try from long out but in the end the Spainard was not dangerous and creative enough.

Aaron Ramsey: 5.5— Injuries allowed the Welshman to receive another start but to be honest it was quite dismal. Rarely did he provide a strong attacking option and his passing was astray.

Tomas Rosicky: 6 —Danced and dribbled but really was never a threat. When Arsenal have a fully fit squad, is there a place for the Czech?

Samir Nasri: 6.5— Looked sharp and quick early on but faded as the game grew. It is promising for Nasri as he is just returning from injury and successfully completed 90 minutes.

Eduardo Da Silva: 6— Lacked the creativity, strength, and power that van Persie provides, but credit to the Croatian—he never stopped trying.

Substitutes

Andrei Arshavin: 6— Fatigued from his mid-week disappointment, but did look dangerous at times.

Carlos Vela: 6— Was a speedy little threat for his short appearance. Deserved a penalty after he was brought down late on

Theo Walcott: 5.5— His devastating pace was a nuisance for the Sunderland defence and he provided a good cross late on, but gave the ball away cheaply. Both Walcott and Vela maybe could have been brought on a tad earlier as they provided a spark.