Mikel Arteta Arsenal
What do you make of the performance?
Really happy with the performance, with the attitude and the mentality that the team showed. I think we were on top of the game. It was about being patient because and the goal would come because we were deserving that, but we had to avoid mistakes. We made an error, it cost us again. But even though that happened I think against adversity, Gabi [Gabriel], individually for how he continued to play, and the team (were impressive). With this support in the stadium it makes things a lot easier. Simple as that.
How important is it for a player to bounce back when they make a mistake?
It’s just the reaction of everybody. After the goal the stadium’s reaction was just to give support to the player. Then the player has to show courage to continue playing. This is part of football, mistakes are part of it and it’s going to continue to happen. It’s about how you respond to that and I’m really pleased. It’s not a coincidence because Gabby has changed his mentality and the way he approaches every day is different to a year ago.
Is there an argument he shouldn’t have been in that position in the first place?
That’s clear.
What has changed in Gabriel’s approach and mentality?
How he looks after himself every day, what is most important in his life apart from his little daughter and his family and how consistent he is every day in his habits and how much he really wants to become one of the best.
What’s the significance of coming from behind?
We’ve grown up, we have more alternatives, I think we have matured as well. Playing in front of these supporters helps because they are driving you as well and then it’s about belief. A lot of that is about belief and confidence that you can do it and now we have that.
Did you feel that you needed to generate the connection with the supporters when you came in?
I don’t know any top teams or winning teams that don’t have that connection with the club and with the supporters. I just had a person who I love that I haven’t seen for a while, it’s the first time he’s been at the stadium for two years and he says it’s the best he’s seen ever since he was at Highbury.
Was that the kind of performance that showed why you gave Odegaard the armband?
Influence, and in difficult moments, take the ball. That’s what he’s done.
