Arteta explains why Arsenal were so defensive in Spurs win  | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta says Arsenal did not plan on playing a defensive game in their 1-0 win over Spurs on Sunday.

The Gunners came away from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with a third consecutive victory at the ground in the Premier League thanks to a headed goal from Gabriel Magalhaes in the second half.

Arsenal ceded possession to the hosts for the most part and took only 11 shots compared to 20 for Ange Postecoglou’s side as they eked out an important win over their rivals in the North London Derby.

Arteta suggested that Spurs forced them into their shell with their style of play, causing them to focus on not giving big chances rather than creating many of their own.

Read – Arsenal make Premier League history with narrow Spurs win

“They are a great side and create an unbelievable atmosphere, we knew it would be tough. We believed we could hurt them, we weren’t the best with the ball today,” the Basque native told Sky Sports.

“The way we defended was top drawer. We want to play a different game but they put a structure that is extremely difficult to match up so we decided not to do that.

“We just work on heading the ball, having the right delivery and winning the ball. It is about the right timing. Over the season the team has to go over hurdles so I am delighted.”

Arteta’s game plan ultimately proved successful and his team remain two points behind  leaders Manchester City in the Premier League table. They sit on ten points after four games ahead of their meeting with the champions at the Etihad Stadium next week.

Read – Spurs ‘lack belief’ as familiar failings prove costly in Arsenal defeat

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