MIKEL ARTETA’S first game as Arsenal boss saw his players run a staggering 2.8miles more than in their previous contest.
The Spaniard has demanded more from his faltering stars since his appointment as he looks to get them out of their mess.
Table shows distance run on Boxing Day compared to distance run the game before, on game week 18
And it appears his message was heard loud and clear in their 1-1 draw at the Cherries.
Despite failing to pick up three vital points, Arsenal’s performance was much improved on their previous 0-0 draw with Everton.
Although their games were just five days apart, the Gunners ran a whopping 4,532 metres more on Boxing Day compared to the match against the Toffees, according to bettingexpert.
Arteta is ready to crack the whip on his new side and has demanded “energy” to whip up the crowd for his first home match against Chelsea on Sunday.
He said: “I was really pleased with how the fans treated the players at Bournemouth and I was happy that the players went to acknowledge them because we need that connection.
“Energy is everything, in life and in football. If we are to generate this, it will give us all a lift.”
That’s a message that could be replicated by Blues boss Frank Lampard who saw his sluggish side collapse to a shock 2-0 home defeat against Southampton after Christmas.
Chelsea’s players may have enjoyed one too many mince pies after they ran 2.3miles less against the Saints than they did the previous week in the win over Tottenham.
Bournemouth showed the biggest change by running 5.2miles more on Boxing Day followed by Manchester United (4.6miles).
Arteta is pushing his players to show more energy at the EmiratesCredit: Getty – Contributor
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
