Arsenal were well on their way to booking their place in the League Cup final at 2-0 ahead just four minutes into the second half on Wednesday, until super-sub Alejandro Garnacho gave Chelsea faint hope of a second-leg comeback.

In a thriller at Stamford Bridge, Mikel Arteta's Arsenal took a major step toward ending a major trophy drought that has lingered for years.

Arsenal's 3-2 win at Chelsea seizes control of their EFL Cup tie - and overcoming their poor record in semi-finals will be the big positive for Mikel Arteta.

Chelsea suffered a 3-2 Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to Arsenal, but remain in the tie thanks to a super-sub performance by Alejandro Garnacho.

Arsenal are unbeaten at home this season. Should they continue on February 3 in the second leg, Mikel Arteta will lead his side out at Wembley with the chance to end a trophy drought of almost six years. The job is only half done for Arsenal but victory at Stamford Bridge was still a significant moment.

Arsenal’s January transfer rumours continue to build, with reports linking the club to La Liga talents Dani Rodriguez and Arda Guler. Mikel Arteta and his recruitment team are said to be keeping a close eye on young attacking and midfield options across Europe and South America.