Mikel Arteta hails Arsenal’s character after a 3-2 comeback win at Bournemouth, citing it as proof of the team’s growth in the Premier League title race
MIKEL Arteta said Arsenal’s resilience to fight back from conceding early to beat Bournemouth 3-2 is a sign of his side’s growth.
The Gunners moved six points clear of Aston Villa at the top of the Premier League table and seven ahead of Manchester City.
A rare error from Gabriel Magalhaes gifted Bournemouth an early lead, but the Brazilian centre-back quickly made amends at the other end to equalise.
A second half double from Declan Rice then secured the three points despite a stunning strike from Eli Kroupi to give Bournemouth hope late on.
“They are so good, (we) made it even harder for ourselves conceding the first goal but I love the character of the team,” said Arteta.
“I love the character of Gabriel. The way he overcame that situation, it’s just unbelievable.”
Arteta said the victory says a lot about how much the team has grown, calling it a massive win.
Rice had been a major injury doubt after missing Tuesday’s 4-1 thrashing of Villa due to swelling on his knee.
Arteta said that the England international had pushed himself to the limit to return and proved the match-winner by doubling his goal tally for the season.
“He has stretched himself to the very limit and the team were rewarded with two great goals,” added Arteta.
“I think it’s the first time he’s scored two in a Premier League game, so yes a great day to remember.”
