Battle! Arsenal v Chelsea 2014/15: Rating the new XI’s, including new signings Sanchez, Fabregas & Costa

Centre Back

Per Mertesacker: The giant German is now a reliable barricade in the Arsenal defence, but at 29 is perhaps edging towards the end of his ‘peak years’. His lack of pace has been exposed at times – 7/10.

Gary Cahill: The England international has impressed in recent seasons, and was a key part of the most miserly defence in the Premier League last season – 8/10.