Mikel Arteta pinpoints key issue Arsenal must address before Tottenham clash after setback | OneFootball

Arteta outlines urgent area for Arsenal to focus on over the international break following 2-2 draw at Sunderland

Mikel Arteta has outlined the main area for Arsenal to focus on over the international break after their slip-up at Sunderland.

The Gunners had come from behind to lead against Sunderland thanks to goals from Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard but Brian Brobbey denied them victory.

Arsenal could now see their lead at the top of the Premier League cut when title rivals Manchester City and Liverpool meet at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Arteta’s side now have two weeks without a game before their face Tottenham in north London derby at Emirates Stadium on November 23.

Arsenal suffered a rare slip-up at Sunderland and next up in the north London derby

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Arsenal were without Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke and Kai Havertz at Sunderland and Arteta says getting injured players back is key over the international break.

“It feels like we lost two points against Sunderland because it was so late and then the big chance we had at the end to win it,” said Arteta. “It is what it is.

“We have to continue to improve, recognise what we have done in the last period… international break, we need to get players back because we are missing seven players in the front line for the last two months.

“So big credit to the team for what they have done as well.”

Arteta has confirmed he will watch the game between Manchester City and Liverpool but he would not be drawn on whether a draw at Etihad Stadium would be the best result for Arsenal.

The Gunners are six points clear at the top but that lead will be cut if either side win.

Asked if he will be watching the game and whether a draw would be the best result for Arsenal, Arteta said: “I will be watching it for sure. Let’s see, it [a draw] is not in my control.”