Martin Keown has described Gabriel Magalhaes’ performance against Brighton as ‘immense’ as Arsenal secured a massive three points.
Mikel Arteta’s team have now moved seven points clear at the top of the Premier League following their win, and Man City dropped two points at home to Nottingham Forest.
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It was a huge effort from the Gunners on the south coast, with Bukayo Saka’s first-half strike proving the decisive moment in the match.
But despite Saka being the match winner, it was Gabriel’s performance which really stood out, and Keown was singing his praises after the game.
Martin Keown calls Gabriel Magalhaes ‘immense’
Martin Keown has hailed Gabriel Magalhaes’ performance against Brighton as ‘immense’, with the defender helping Arsenal keep a vital clean sheet.
Arsenal were without the injured William Saliba, who suffered an ankle injury, but the Brazilian seriously stepped up when it mattered most.
The Brazilian was rightfully named the Premier League Man of the Match for his display, as he made 14 clearances, won seven of his eight duels and one huge clearance off the line.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Keown said: “A massively significant night. We said this might be the game, go and win it, honestly, torturous to watch it, but Gabriel’s performance tonight was immense.”
The Gunners have now kept 14 clean sheets this season, which is more than any other team in the Premier League.
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David Raya looks well on course to winning the Golden Glove award, and he will certainly have Gabriel to thank if he gets it over the line.
In the opening stages of the game, Gabriel showed his defensive IQ with a brilliant header off the line following a mistake from his goalkeeper.
Whilst Declan Rice has been brilliant for Arsenal, Gabriel is the reason why Arsenal’s hopes of ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title are close to becoming a reality.
After the game, Gabriel said he was delighted with the clean sheet: “We have to stay focused on every ball!
“In the final minutes of the match, Brighton lined up all its players in attack. We had to defend well, and we managed it successfully. We’re really pleased to have kept the clean sheet and secured the three points.”
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