Mikel Arteta was overjoyed with the performance of his Arsenal players as the Gunners registered a vital 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday afternoon.
Bukayo Saka's strike just before the half-hour mark was enough to separate the two sides as Arsenal withstood a shaky last few minutes to take all three points back to north London after what was a dominant display for the majority of the 90 minutes. The win ensures Arteta's men extend their lead in fourth spot over nearest rivals Manchester United by four points.
The Red Devils have also played a game more and will have to enjoy an inspired end to the season if they are to catch Arsenal given the form of the Gunners. The mid-week defeat by Liverpool a blip either side of two victories against Leicester City at home and Aston Villa away.
Speaking to BT Sport, the Arsenal manager admitted his side could have enjoyed a healthier advantage over their hosts had they converted their chances. "We talked before the match about the need to be sharp and physical. We controlled the game. We could have scored more and that is where we have to take the team.
"We have to put chances away; in the Premier League, you cannot dominate 96 minutes, this is impossible, but I'm really pleased with how we competed in every phase of the play. I'm really proud of the boys." The likes of Alexandre Lacazette, Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe all spurned decent chances to double the Gunners lead after Saka's opener.
Arteta went on to reveal three attributes his players are now starting to show, which will certainly help them as the race for fourth hots up in the coming weeks. "They are showing character, courage and quality. You can see the connection they have. It is phenomenal to watch. If you want to be a top team, you have to win home and away. We are doing that consistently and we have to continue. We really want [the top four] and we are going to give it ago."
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Arteta cut an animated figure for much of the contest at Villa Park as his side bounced back from the midweek loss against Liverpool in the best way possible. At one stage, the Spaniard was even warned by fourth official Martin Atkinson to remain inside his technical area.
The Gunners are next in action after the international break when they have yet another stern away test waiting for them in the form of a trip across London to the home of Crystal Palace. The Eagles are managed by Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira who will be out to spoil the feel-good factor currently being enjoyed by his old side.
Arsenal will play six of their remaining 10 Premier League games away from the comfort of the Emirates and will need to put in plenty of displays similar to the one witnessed at Villa Park.
