MIKEL ARTETA insists the Arsenal fightback is on.
The Spaniard was sodden but smiling as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang cancelled out Dan Gosling’s strike at the rain-lashed Vitality Stadium.
Arteta was impressed by the attitude of his players in the 1-1 draw at BournemouthCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Arteta said: “I’m pleased with some of the things I’ve seen in terms of attitude, character, the passion and the fight and spirit of the team.
“It was spot-on. I was worried about what would happen if we conceded but the faces of the players at half-time showed me they wanted it.
“Normally when you are in this process and you concede a goal, the heads go down and things that have been pressing from the past come back.
“But it didn’t happen. That’s a real positive.”
After his first match as boss, Arteta said: “I felt comfortable and wet! I’m used to making decisions.
I have good people to give me advice too.”
The Gunners chief was also impressed by Mesut Ozil and said: “His attitude in training since the day I walked in has been incredible.
“When we did the preparation we believed Mesut would be key.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goal sealed a point in Arteta’s first game in chargeCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“He responded, he did what he had to do and we could have had two or three goals because of him.”
Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe said: “We didn’t know what to expect from Arsenal with their new manager.
“It was visible to see them playing in a different way so we had to make sure we were better than against Burnley and I’m pleased with my players.”
Mikel Arteta says everyone gets a clean sheet at Arsenal including Mesut Ozil
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
