Wenger: Lacazette substitution not due to performance

  • Alexandre Lacazette was subbed in the 65th minute of Arsenal’s draw at Chelsea
  • The France international was replaced by Chilean forward Alexis Sanchez
  • Arsene Wenger insists he was pleased with the striker’s involvement in the game 

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger insists he was pleased with the display of striker Alexandre Lacazette, despite taking him off in the 65th minute at Stamford Bridge.

Lacazette, who moved to the Emirates for £53million this summer, was guilty of spurning Arsenal’s best chances as they drew 0-0 with Chelsea on Sunday.

The France international has only scored twice since moving from Lyon this summer, and was replaced midway through the second half by Alexis Sanchez in the second half.

Alexandre Lacazette was taken off in the 65th minute of Arsenal’s draw with Chelsea 

Despite the change however, Wenger insists he was pleased with the forward’s contribution. 

‘I felt Lacazette had a very good first half. He worked very hard for the team, he’s very disciplined and it takes him some time to maintain that intensity for 90 minutes,’ he said.

‘Don’t forget as well I had Walcott, Giroud and Alexis on the bench, so after 65 minutes in a game of that intensity, it’s normal that you bring some fresh legs in.’ 

The Gunners frontman was guilty of missing their best chances during the stalemate

The Gunners frontman was guilty of missing their best chances during the stalemate

I never ask any striker to understand that he has to make room for somebody else. You can never do that.’ 

Arsenal picked up their first point at Chelsea in five visits to their London rivals, keeping their first clean sheet in 12 trips across the capital. 

Wenger’s side are back in action on Wednesday evening when they host Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup.  

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