Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, emphasized that his team must deliver near-perfect performances to have any hope of closing the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Despite recent wins boosting their momentum, Arteta acknowledges the daunting challenge posed by Liverpool’s dominant form this season.
Liverpool currently sit eight points clear of second-placed Manchester City, with Arsenal further behind.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Saturday clash against West Ham at the London Stadium, Arteta admitted that catching Liverpool requires extraordinary consistency.
“If they continue that way, that’s for sure,” Arteta said when asked if perfection was necessary to catch Liverpool.
“With the numbers they’re producing and the amount of games they’re winning, the focus has to remain on us maintaining consistency in performances that will give us the right to win many games.
It’s a long run,” Arteta continued.
Arsenal head into the match on the back of a morale-boosting 5-1 Champions League victory over Sporting Lisbon and a 3-0 league win against Nottingham Forest, ending a four-game winless streak in the Premier League.
Arteta highlighted the importance of carrying that momentum forward.
“Winning lifts energy and confidence.
These were two big wins for us, but now it’s about consistency,” he said.
“It’s about getting that momentum and taking it further against a good opponent tomorrow.
We need to replicate these performances to win,” he stated.
Arteta also praised the return of captain Martin Ødegaard, who has been pivotal since recovering from a two-month ankle injury.
“Martin is exceptional,” Arteta said.
“Good players who are consistent and reliable, who can elevate the game and improve those around them, are invaluable.
His absence was felt, and his return has been a big boost,” Arteta stated.
Victory over West Ham could temporarily propel Arsenal to second place, adding significance to their performance, especially with a major Liverpool-Manchester City clash set for Sunday.
Arteta stressed the importance of sustaining high-level performances amidst the tightly packed fixtures.
“This is every three days now, so it doesn’t matter what you did yesterday.
It’s about the next game and sustaining competitive performances throughout,” he concluded.
The Gunners will aim to keep their recent form alive while keeping an eye on Liverpool’s relentless march at the top.
AFP
