"Absolutely fantastic" - Gary Neville lauds Arsenal superstar after Gunners' 1-0 win over Tottenham

Arsenal once again claimed North London bragging rights with a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday, September 15. Gabriel’s towering header secured all three points for the Gunners, but Gary Neville heaped praise on Bukayo Saka for his impressive performance on the night.

The Gunners entered the game with several concerns. Martin Odegaard and Ricardo Calafiori were sidelined due to injuries sustained during the international break. Declan Rice, on the other hand, was suspended after receiving a red card in the match against Brighton & Hove Albion before the break.

Tottenham started the game brightly, forcing David Raya into action a couple of times. Arsenal also had their chances, and after a competitive hour at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Gabriel rose highest to score from a set-piece in the 64th minute, which proved enough to secure all three points.

Though Neville awarded Gabriel the Man of the Match for his performance, he also praised Bukayo Saka for his excellent display. Saka frequently tracked back to contain the threat posed by Destiny Udogie and supported Ben White defensively in dealing with Son Heung-min. The 23-year-old winger also provided the assist for Gabriel’s goal with an inswinging corner.

Neville was particularly impressed with Saka’s work rate, praising him as one of the best wide players in the league.

"His work off the ball defensively, I don’t think there are many better wide players in terms of understanding their position for the team and when they are out of position than him. Absolutely fantastic. The work he has done around Ben White has been wonderful," he said (via tbrfootball).

His exertions on the night seemed to have taken a toll on the youngster, as he had to be subbed off due to an injury late in the game. He hobbled off the pitch, with Mikel Arteta stating in his post-match press conference that he is unsure about the extent of the injury.

Mikel Arteta praises Arsenal’s character after victory over Tottenham Hotspur

Arsenal were put under pressure, particularly in the early stages of the game, as Spurs pressed high and forced multiple turnovers. The home side also dominated possession, which meant the Gunners had to sit back and absorb the pressure.

However, they defended resolutely to secure all three points, with Arteta later praising the team’s character and noting that winning ugly is, in fact, a big compliment for his squad.

"The people that we have, I think I already spoke about it during the week, people that are harder, they have thick skin, they love the game and they love winning. In order to love the game and win, you have to do a lot of things - sometimes people call them ugly. Enjoying doing those ugly things is a big compliment of this team right now, and when you’re able to normally, you get a good gift," Arteta said (via Arsenal).

Arsenal’s schedule is about to get more challenging, with an upcoming clash against Atalanta in the Champions League, followed by a trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City next week.