Arsenal considerations raised for Brighton conflict as Mikel Arteta warned ‘must do better’
EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal take on Brighton at the AMEX Stadium on Wednesday night as Mikel Arteta’s side head to a ground where they’ve endured nightmares down the years
Mikel Arteta has been told where his side must improve against Brighton
Arsenal face a tough test on Wednesday night at a Brighton side who have found a return to form in recent weeks.
The Gunners kept their five-point advantage over Manchester City intact on Sunday when Mikel Arteta’s side made the most of their set-piece dominance and a mad red card to Pedro Neto. However, they will know that Pep Guardiola’s side are looking to make it five consecutive wins against Nottingham Forest at the Etihad at the same time.
Jurrien Timber’s winner against Chelsea meant Arsenal keep hold of the driving seat in the title race, but only just. The Gunners were far from at their best on Sunday and will have to step up against a Seagulls team now looking up the table rather than down after back-to-back wins.
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Speaking exclusively to the Daily Star Sport via Gambling.com, the UK casino comparison site, Arsenal invincible Jeremie Aliadiere reflected on the victory over the Blues and where Arteta’s side must step up.
“Arsenal scored from two set pieces, so we do want to score more open play goals and always pushing for that,” Aliadiere said, who was a part of the Arsenal team that last won the title back in 2004.
“Against Spurs, it was four goals from open play, so this would have pleased Mikel. We must do better from defending set pieces as two goals now conceded against Chelsea. Apart from that, the heart and desire was present in key moments, so it will give the team a lot of confidence.
“Some players looked leggy at the end so this will be figured out prior to Brighton as to who, if any of the players needs a rest.
Looking ahead to the trip to the AMEX Stadium tonight, Aliadiere called on the fitness of Arteta’s players to prevail. “Arsenal need to keep doing as they have been doing,” the Frenchman said.
“Concentrate at key moments defensively, but they want to start with their best possible team to get the game won.
“Although Arsenal looked leggy towards the end of the Chelsea game, it’s important that if the key players are declared fit, they start and produce a big performance to try and get the game won, and then they can be changed, knowing that it’s Mansfield on the weekend.
“So Arsenal can look to rotate a lot of the squad for that game. Take your chances too; Arsenal must look to be clinical now in these types of games.”
Concerns ahead of the Brighton clash centred around Declan Rice’s discomfort in the Chelsea win, but Arteta has stated he hopes the England international will feature. However, Martin Odegaard is a doubt.
