Arsenal have rarely been accused of winning ugly but it was a charge they will joyfully accept after a 1-0 victory at Manchester United befitting that unflattering description – and then some.
Mikel Arteta’s side were scrappy and well below their fluent best against a desperately poor United but this was three points that meant the world to them.
This eyesore of a game was settled by Leandro Trossard’s 20th-minute swoop at the near post after Casemiro fell asleep – not literally of course – in unforgivable fashion to play Kai Havertz onside.
Casemiro, a sad and fading shadow of the great player who bestrode Real Madrid’s midfield through their Champions League glories, simply strolled out.
Havertz initially looked well offside until a glance revealed the dawdling veteran playing him on, leaving Trossard the grateful beneficiary.
Manchester City still hold the cards, with the destiny of the title in their own hands.
But if Tottenham can somehow do north London rivals Arsenal a favour against Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions on Tuesday then that first Premier League title in 20 years will come within touching distance.
