No filter: Martinelli silences Portsmouth boos with hat-trick
Video credit: TNT Sports
Asked if he had made a mistake, Arteta said: “In the beginning we probably focused too much on the tactical side, which means we packed in too much information.”
“That’s how important the emotional part is. When you connect with your players and understand how they can better respond to your requests, that’s when you touch the right buttons.”
The Gunners have established a reputation as a stingy defensive unit and undeniably efficient set-piece takers, and Arteta has revealed how standards are being set from the top down.
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Highlights: Martinelli scores hat-trick as Arsenal fight back to beat Portsmouth
Video credit: TNT Sports
“Please be clear what you mean by criteria,” he said. “Standards, fundamentals, habits – these can be very important words when they are not specific.
“So tell them exactly what you want from them. What are the criteria? Is it just time, training standards, how to react in body language, how to prepare for a match?”
“Ultimately, what matters is what actions we take to embody those words.”
Arteta also spoke about the qualities needed to cope with high-pressure games and stay on top of his game.
“From our perspective, whenever you’re in this position, you always tend to look at things that can be improved, we need to be better at this.
“But sometimes I think we have to look back at all the things we’ve done well to get to where we are today and make sure we continue to do that.
“And we can add value with other things, which is great. But if you’re in the position you’re in, the players are doing so many good things. Make sure they feel that, and that leads to confidence, belief, belief.”
Arteta is currently regarded as one of the most accomplished head coaches in the Premier League, but Lodge wanted to know how he would fare as an amateur manager.
“I don’t know, but I’m sure I’ll be as passionate as I am here for Arsenal, because I think it comes from within, regardless of the level,” Arteta said.
“When you see these types of coaches and the work they do, it gives you great admiration. This integrity and love for the game, it’s beautiful to see.”
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