Arteta proud of his team despite the Brighton loss

The Premier League front-runners were not as their best last night as they lost to Brighton at home despite a strong start to the match.

The

opened the scoring early as they have done so many times this season but Arteta’s much-changed Arsenal team began to show their weaknesses soon after. Nketiah’s opener was answered by the former Gunner Danny Welbeck’s goal from the penalty spot to finish the first half at level terms.

Strikes from Mitoma and Lamptey made it 3-1 for

at the Emirates as the Seagulls once again defeated Arsenal at their home. However, Arteta claimed that the scoreline didn’t reflect how well his team performed.

"The view is that the result doesn't reflect what happened on the pitch, I think it's clear,"

Arteta said.

"In moments where we were clearly on top of the game, we didn't take our opportunities."

Karl Hein made his debut for the Gunners last night but the goalkeeper was at fault on the first goal, giving away a penalty to Brighton. However, Arteta was not critical of the 20-year-old:  

"I think he deserves the chance. He's the first goalkeeper for his national team and at his age that's not usual,"

Arteta told the reporters

"If I have to play him tomorrow again I would. Errors are part of football."

Fabio Viera who has been excellent at times this season also had a poor game last night but Arteta urged everyone to be patient with him, saying:

"I think in front of goal he's been unlucky but every player needs time to adapt. I'm not worried at all.”

Arsenal will face Wolves at Molineux Stadium before the temporary rest due to World Cup. Arteta also hinted at the Gunners looking to reinvest in the squad in Januray in an effort to boost their title-hopes.

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