Michael Owen has dismissed Fabian Hurzeler's criticism of Arsenal and suggested the Brighton manager might reconsider his stance if he ever found himself in a title race. The former Liverpool and England striker was responding to the German's comments after Arsenal ground out a 1-0 victory at the Amex Stadium on Tuesday night.
Bukayo Saka's early goal proved decisive as Arsenal moved seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, albeit having played a game more than their closest rivals, after Manchester City were held to a 2-2 draw by Nottingham Forest. Mikel Arteta's side were far from their fluent best but produced a resolute defensive display to secure a vital win.
Owen conceded that this version of Arsenal may not be easy on the eye, but argued that aesthetics count for little during a title run-in. 'He might change his mind if he's going for a title,' Owen said of Hurzeler. 'Then and any old win will do.' He added: 'Listen, Arsenal have played well for the vast majority of the season and it's the oldest saying in the football book, sometimes you've got to win playing ugly.'
The former striker praised Arsenal's organisation and resilience, noting their strong defence, goalkeeper and solid midfield. 'They aren't what Liverpool have been, aren't what Manchester City have been over the last decade or so. Basically blitzing teams scoring loads of goals but also conceding a few as well,' he said. 'They are well drilled and as soon as they score one you rarely see them not picking up the points.'
Arteta, meanwhile, responded with sarcasm to Hurzeler's observations, saying 'What a surprise' in his post-match press conference. The Arsenal boss preferred to focus on his team's collective spirit, describing the win as 'remarkable' given the demanding schedule and the players' workload. 'The level of energy and desire that they put in, it's phenomenal,' he said.
