Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette have shown a promising “connection”, says Martin Keown, but Arsenal are only expected to use them in tandem when playing at home.
The Gunners often line up with a lone frontman, with attacking support provided by deep-lying playmakers.
Aubameyang is the favoured option to lead the line at present, with Unai Emery sticking with a 4-2-3-1 approach since inheriting the reins from Arsene Wenger.
France international Lacazette has, however, impressed during recent outings to stake a serious claim for a regular starting berth.
Keown believes he is deserving of such a role but feels he may only get the nod at Emirates Stadium, telling the Daily Mail: “These two seem desperate to play with one another. When Lacazette plays, Aubameyang comes to life. There is undoubtedly a connection between them.
“When Lacazette came on against West Ham, it gave Arsenal a focal point. Everything stuck and without him, Arsenal lacked a target man.
“It may be that Unai Emery has one team for Arsenal’s home games and another for when they play away.
Arsenal recorded their first victory of the 2018-19 campaign when facing the Hammers last time out, with Emery relieved to collect a 3-1 success after seeing his side fall behind on derby day.
Getty ImagesThe Gunners are now up and running after taking in a testing start but Keown believes there is still plenty of work to be done, particularly at the back.
The former centre-half added: “Arsenal gifted so many chances to West Ham. I agree with Arsenal playing a high line because it condenses the space for the opposition.
“But you have to play a high line with caution. As a defender, you have to be prepared to drop off if someone makes a good run.
“At the moment, none of the Arsenal defenders are seeing the runs or dropping off to deal with them.
“Saturday was a timely win that will have done the team’s confidence the world of good. But it is vital they persevere with what Emery wants to do.”