Mikel Arteta lauds Arsenal ruthlessness after statement victory over Aston Villa | OneFootball

Gunners extended lead at top of table with big win

Mikel Arteta hailed Arsenal's "extraordinary" ruthlessness in dispatching Aston Villa.

"I am so happy," Arteta said.

"We talked about emotionally how demanding it was going to be and we struggled in the first ten minutes, arriving a bit late, playing through us and creating some open space situations that they are very dangerous at.

"Then we adjusted, got a bit more control, two big chances by Víktor [Gyokeres] and the one was a scrappy situation inside the box. We didn't manage to score.

"In the second half we competed for everything then much better. The timing was better and the goal was fulfilled in an extraordinary way, so efficient in everything that we did.

"Unlike the last few games where we had so many big situations, today we were very prolific and accurate to make the difference."

After a run of narrow wins, this was the statement Arsenal needed to provide an injection of momentum into their title bid.

The fixtures continue to come thick and fast, with the Gunners away at Bournemouth this weekend before hosting Liverpool.

Arteta is confident that winning in this manner over an in-form Villa side will further lift Arsenal through the busy run.

"The belief is energy as well because they put in so much," Arteta continued.

"We play every two and a half days. The schedule is very, very demanding. We have some very tough matches, injuries, but the players are so willing. So winning helps all that.

"All the sacrifices and commitment that you put in get reflected in results and great performances. That's so satisfying but we know there's still so much to play for. It's a great way to end the year, that's for sure."