Free-kicks, long throws and corners are in vogue to such an extent that Arsenal currently top the table by four points despite having scored only five of their 16 Premier League goals from open play. A record 19% of all Premier League goals this season have been scored from corners (45 of 241), the highest share in the competition's history.

The taker is the most important player in the set-piece routine, and Mikel Arteta's side now have several strong options to choose from

Ethan Nwaneri has hardly gotten on the pitch after his breakout last season. On Wednesday, he reminded everyone how much talent he possesses.

"We're still only in October. We just have to keep working, keep winning games, keep building momentum and see where it leaves us towards the back end of the season." Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze were among the players brought in to try to get Arsenal over the line in 2025-26.

It is easy forget how far Nwaneri has come. On nights like this, he leads the way for other Hale End stars like Dowman and Harriman-Annous

Brighton outshot Arsenal on the night, forcing Kepa into six saves. First-choice keeper David Raya has faced just five shots since September. It wasn’t entirely convincing, but Arteta can at least take solace from his side’s spot in the quarterfinals.

LONDON -- If Arsenal are going to hang around in the EFL Cup, this is the way to do it. No key men were risked, squad players got much-needed reps and Hale End's finest made the right impression. That all this came with a berth in the quarterfinals of this competition makes it that fraction better.

Mikel Arteta has suggested Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke could all return for Arsenal's north London derby clash against Tottenham on November 23.