Mikel Arteta praised Arsenal's growing 'personality and presence' after they came from behind to beat Bournemouth 3-2 and move six points clear at the top of the Premier League. Gabriel Magalhães atoned for his early error by scoring the equaliser, before Declan Rice struck twice on his return from injury.
Arteta was particularly impressed with how Gabriel responded to gifting Evanilson the opener, saying: 'What Gabi Magalhães has done after making a big mistake to concede the goal, the way he reacted, the way he transmitted energy, it was remarkable.' He also lauded Rice, who missed the previous match with a knee problem but passed a late fitness test.
'Declan is constantly adding things to his game, and I don't see where he can stop,' Arteta added. 'He wanted to play, he showed that he was big-time in. He's such a pivotal player for us.'
Bournemouth have now gone 11 Premier League matches without a win, and manager Andoni Iraola admitted the frustration is mounting. 'We do a lot of good things but go away with one point or no points,' he said.
Iraola also confirmed he expects Antoine Semenyo to feature against Tottenham despite speculation linking the forward with a move to Manchester City. 'Until I am told he is not our player, he will continue playing,' Iraola stated.
