Match Thread: Arsenal v Newcastle (FA Cup 3rd Round)

[bodacious benny]

I think Murphy is our best crosser of the ball, not got much competition for that accolade but I’ve always thought he’s had a bit of quality.

[Colly]

I agree. He's up there for set piece taker too, which again is very faint praise but there's only really him and Ritchie that can even attempt a corner.

[originallad]

Matt Ritchie is beyond terrible now.

He needs dropping. His crossing and set pieces have been woeful recently. He's also been giving away fouls on a regular basis. Can't fault his effort, but he's been s***.

[bodacious benny]

Listening to the True Faith podcast, they make a good point that our main striker for this game (Carroll) is getting praise for his performance based on how well he defended

I'm still surprised that Gayle didn't start given that he's not had much game time in the league.

[ALF]

Murphy has brilliant technique but he really needs to work on his decision making. Too often he tries too much.

[Speedo]

Listening to the True Faith podcast, they make a good point that our main striker for this game (Carroll) is getting praise for his performance based on how well he defended

I'm still surprised that Gayle didn't start given that he's not had much game time in the league.

Hopefully he'll start tonight

[bodacious benny]

Murphy has brilliant technique but he really needs to work on his decision making. Too often he tries too much.

Same with Miggy. Though I guess when you play 95% of the game with literally no options or movement in front of you it’s tricky

[Remember Colo]

Murphy has brilliant technique but he really needs to work on his decision making. Too often he tries too much.

Same with Miggy. Though I guess when you play 95% of the game with literally no options or movement in front of you it’s tricky

Or in Murphy's case, you're often coming on in the final minutes while trailing or drawing and expected to create some of the first chances of the match. Can understand why a young attacker trying to earn playing time might force things a bit.