Mikel Arteta spoke to BT Sport after the 1-0 win over PSV. Here’s what he said to say.
On the game being a challenge …
Yes it was. We had really good moments and were dominant in the game against a really good side, but we lacked that final pass, final shot, too many shots off target in really open situations we could have defined better.
But overall we are happy to have qualified which is the first step.
Patience and perseverance important …
I think so. In Europe you have to control the opponent, because they are really talented and are used to winning. The amount of goals they scored in their last four games is incredible, and we needed to be cautious. Don’t take any unnecessary risk, don’t lose our shape and I think we were very mature in that sense.
A Xhaka moment of magic ..
It was great [the goal], obviously with his right foot and half-volley for Granit to score that goal! He is getting in great positions in every single game and that’s why he’s scoring goals.
Is Saka ok after a kick?
I think he’s ok.
5 points clear at the top …
As I said before, when you have the chance in Europe take it. We’ve done our bit, because we’re qualified but finishing first and second is a big difference and we have to get the job done.
You seem to find a way to win right now. What is it?
The way we are competing, the way we are playing. I think the performance on most of the occasions are giving us a chance to win the games, but sometimes we have to dig in and win the way we did today.
We are there
Matt Turner starting to look a lot more confident. This is why we needed this competition. He can easily bed in before without much pressure
I am happy for him. He is virtually playing weekly and it is showing in his confidence. He wouldn’t be out of place in an EPL game with the lesser lights. The first 15 minutes against FC Zurich was nightmarish. He was full Runarsson mode.
Strong team next week, take at least a draw and rest players for Zurich
Would love to see the next generation in that last group game
Definitely, Holland isn’t that far and home to Forest is the following game.
Isn’t Zurich in Switzerland?
Am I the only one who’s reads these in his accent
No xD
Nope me too.
I’ve just realised all along I’ve been reading managers reaction in Arsene Wenger’s voice. It’s been what, 6 years now ?
We have done well eventually. Though they treated Saka with venom. Xhaka should not be tensed up to the extent of stamping. That represents stupidity. Both in Europe and home Referees should deter the type of foul players are lunching on Saka and Jesus. It boards on malice simple.