What a performance from the lads yesterday -- we showed tremendous character and determination to get back into the game after a very unsteady opening 20 minutes. The drinks break came at the right time for us because after that, we were the better team for the majority of the game.
Superb performances by everyone. They all stepped up when they needed to, even the ones who we malign regularly. Proud of the boys.
I just want to give a shoutout to Mikel Arteta - this would never have been a feasible possibility before he was appointed. There were many people who understandably doubted him as a result of his lack of managerial experience. His selection was always going to go one of two ways. And although it's still extremely early, it's looking like a masterstroke. Less than 8 months into the job and he's secured a trophy already. Almost unfathomable back in December.
You can tell by his body language and the way he communicates with the players that he just exudes authority and respect. All of them seem attentive whenever he speaks to them, The fact players like Torreira and Sokratis, who have barely featured, gave him such huge embraces epitomises the shift in dressing room culture.
He's also learned from his mistakes. He's adapted the system to what suits the players and their skillset better in order to breed a functional team that can win games e.g. 3 at the back, wing backs pushing forward, defending from the front etc. I know we don't play high-octane, scintillating football, but we do the ugly stuff well now - and that's helped us massively. There's no room for passengers in Arteta's Arsenal.
Just want to remind people he took over an Arsenal team that had 2 wins, 7 draws and 6 losses beforehand. The players had downed tools. We looked completely void of ideas or motivation. There was no structure. No trust. A mass exodus looked on the cards. What a turnaround it's been.
If he's supported in the transfer market, I can only see an upward trajectory from here.
Well done to everyone involved at the club - 14 FA Cups. Extending the record.
