UNAI EMERY insists the Arsenal fightback starts today as he struggles to save his job.
The under-pressure Spaniard has been warned by his Emirates bosses that results are not good enough as the club sit eight points behind of the top four.
Arsenal boss Unai Emery believes his current crop of players can turn their fortunes aroundCredit: Getty – Contributor
Following Mauricio Pochettino’s sensationally sacking by Spurs on Tuesday, Emery is now the bookies’ favourite for the next Premier League manager to get the boot.
Last week head of football Raul Sanllehi and managing director Vinai Venkatesham told staff: “Results and performances are not at the level we want or expect and things need to improve.”
Arsenal have won just four of their 12 Prem games and recorded 17 points — ten ahead of bottom-of-the-table Norwich but 17 adrift of leaders Liverpool.
Boss Emery is adamant his underperforming Gunners are ready to save his bacon — despite their miserable efforts so far.
GOOD RESPONSE
Ahead of this afternoon’s crucial home game against struggling Southampton, he declared: “I know there is some doubt at the moment but I am convinced that will change.
“We are all aware we need better performances but I know how we can achieve that and I am optimistic it will happen.
“I’ve been speaking with the players this week about how we can change things and it was very good how they responded.
“We are 100 per cent focused on getting three points against Southampton but above all, we need to connect with our supporters while being in control for 90 minutes.”
Uruguay midfielder Lucas Torreira will remain in place of Swiss midfielder Granit XhakaCredit: Getty – Contributor
Arsenal are seven points worse off than at this stage last season and have not won any of their last five games in all competitions.
They have not won a Premier League game by more than a single goal.
Emery added: “We started well but, little by little, we have lost points and our position in the table.
“We are not losing at home but we’re really not convincing the supporters and that is our first objective.
“We have quality and good structure in our set-up and now we must think how we can reduce the gap to the top four.”
Lucas Torreira will continue to stand in for out-of-favour Granit Xhaka this afternoon and Emery admits the Uruguayan midfielder has been disappointing this season.
He said: “I showed Lucas some film of his best performances for us last season and how he can improve.
“Don’t forget he is still young at 23 and only just starting his process here. He only started in the Premier League last year.
“He’s a good player for us with great commitment and very good behaviour.
“Lucas has a big future here but he needs to learn to do better.
“He is not being consistent and my challenge to him is to do better with some tactical issues.”
Arsenal manager Unai Emery says that Granit Xhaka could be welcomed back as long as he doesn’t forget his mistake
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
