Sub-edited by Oliver Nehila
Under-pressure Southampton manager, Russell Martin, called Mikel Arteta’s process at Arsenal, ‘a really good example for his team.’ He pointed out Arteta’s great use of ‘perseverance, patience and clarity’ over his time at the club.
The pair will meet on Saturday, in what Martin hopes can potentially be a turning point for his side, who sit 19th and winless in the Premier League. Martin praised the ‘brilliant football’ his side have played at times this season and admitted that his ‘responsibility’ is to get the team ‘over the line.’
Southampton are desperate for a first victory, but will be without Will Smallbone, Kamaldeen Sulemana and Jack Stephens at the Emirates Stadium, Martin’s confirmed. Arteta is still without captain, Martin Odegaard. Ben White will also be absent tomorrow, whilst Jurrien Timber is a doubt. Arteta said that it is important to ‘hide our weaknesses.’ With the potential loss of both of his right backs, he will need to focus on the ‘important small details.’
Arteta was reminded of the threat which lesser teams can pose last weekend against Leicester. His team managed to get over the line, sending them into second place, but Arteta was firm to tell the press that it’s ‘too early’ for title talk.
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