Arsenal found themselves 1-0 down at St Mary's after just two minutes
Arsenal found themselves 1-0 down at St Mary’s after just two minutes (Reuters)

Arsenal started their match against Southampton in total disarray and managed to concede after just two minutes.

Per Mertesacker, in his role as captain, led the chaos.

It was the German’s TWO errors that led to the opening goal which was scored by Charlie Austin.

First he put Arsenal in trouble when what should have been a simple clearance went straight to Austin, which enabled Southampton to start their attack.

Mertesacker cleared the ball straight to Southampton
It landed at the feet of Austin who quickly started the attack

And then, as he tried to redeem himself, he fell over when trying to make a tackle which opened up a chasm of space that Austin exploited to full effect.

Mertesacker tried his best to get the ball back
But he only succeeded in falling over
Austin celebrates his goal (Reuters)

It was a dreadfully embarrassing few seconds for Mertesacker that will ensure questions about Arsenal’s defence continue.

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