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Martin Keown has launched an attack on Arsenal’s underperforming players while defending Mikel Arteta as the man for the job.
The Gunners have struggled to score goals or win games this season and Arteta has been under pressure for positive results.
As the club languishes in 15th place in the league table, there has been talk that the Spaniard might not survive the blow, but Keown doesn’t believe firing Arteta is the solution.
He says that while there are tactical aspects to Arsenal’s troubles as Arteta keeps changing tactics, there is also the role of character in him, and he has urged Arsenal players to show some character and get down to business to bring the good results home.
He admitted that while Arteta’s job is not up for grabs now, things must change or he will have trouble keeping his job. He also criticized Willian for going on vacation to Arsenal.
“It’s all gotten a bit tactical, but I want to see the character,” Keown told TalkSPORT.
“I feel like there is good direction from this manager, but when you change systems there is confusion.
“So let’s put it behind us, keep it simple, but also roll up our sleeves and play with determination.
“I would love to be in the club in some way to try to get through this period.
“It has not been good enough.
“I don’t think Arteta’s job is in trouble but if he keeps losing games, he will be asked questions because he is a rookie manager.
“He has only had 50 games as a coach; Who wins an FA Cup in their first 50 games? Nobody, but has. So you have qualities, you just have to formulate a plan and get these players to join.
“Arteta has to identify characters that she can trust, that she can believe in, and draw leadership skills.
“I don’t think you were born a leader, things happen around you and you take a step forward, that’s what they need to do and it’s not happening. Players cannot hide and blame the coach.
“Willian has come to Arsenal and he seems to have taken a vacation.”
