Arsenal should have been ahead in the first half and most of this was down to Saka's positioning and ability. A quick thread on why. #Arsenal #Saka #Pepe #Lacazette #aubameyang #AFC #BRIARS #Ceballos #Arteta

Saka's played on the left of a 3 in CM, however he constantly took up the position of a winger. This allowed Auba to actually play as the main centre forward with Laca dropping deep as the pivot #Arsenal #Saka #BRIARS #aubameyang

Another example here displays how Saka's wide position caused the Brighton backline problems with Auba, Laca & Ceballos occupying defenders space

Another positive situation developed from this position. The main negative here is that Pepe has been asked to stay wide but a more central position (similar to Auba's) may have helped create more scoring chances as the front 2 are significantly outnumbered

Another example again. Pepe again out of shot. Ceballos for once making a late midfield run. Arsenal need to find a goal scorer from midfield as quite often the runs from the strikers create the space on the edge of the box

Summary: Saka plays wide & allows Kola to tuck into the central space but he's not a strong passer. Tierney can improve here.
Pepe is too wide when the ball is on the left. He should be in line with the back post.
A midfielder is needed to add goals from the edge of the box