THIRD BEST VERSUS SECOND WORST
Sub-edited by James McLeish
Embed from Getty ImagesUnder-pressure manager Russell Martin admits he’s responsible for Southampton’s poor start but is convinced the Saints will respond.
It will be a tough ask as they visit Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side who have ambitions of winning their first Premier League title since 2004.
He said: “It is my responsibility to learn [from the Bournemouth defeat].”
“We’re learning so much, so quickly in the Premier League.”
Southampton make the trip off the back of five defeats and one draw in their first six games on their return to the top flight.
He said: “No one is happy we haven’t won yet, myself more than anyone.”
“The opinions that matter are the ones of my bosses and the owners and the people at the club.”
Arteta was full of praise for the Saints, saying: “they have a clear identity, a clear way of playing.”
“Every three days we have an unbelievable test.”
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale returns to the Emirates after being replaced by David Raya last campaign.
Arteta said: “We loved him a lot, [he was] very charismatic and he really put his fingerprints at the club. It will be very good to see him.”
Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Southampton
Key Player: Leandro Trossard
