Mikel Arteta wants to see further improvement from Arsenal despite having won six in a row with a 1-0 away win over Bodo / Glimt in the Europa League.
Bukayo Saka’s deflected goal in the 24th minute put the Gunners ahead, but they faced heavy pressure in the second half as the hosts pushed to equalize.
The Norwegian champions’ attempts to maintain their 14-game streak at home in European competition have finally come to an end, as their hosts have been holding on to 11 wins in 12 games this season.
Speaking later though, Arteta acknowledged that his team needed to improve their game overall, although he said he was happy with another tense triumph.
“I am really happy with the victory against a team that won the round of 16 here at home,” the Spaniard told BT Sport.
“We were expecting a really tough night here, and we still made a lot of changes, but I’m happy to find a way to win. Doing it in all circumstances is a real plus for me and for the team.
“They are very fast and turnovers and ball distribution that you don’t usually expect. The ball was bouncing and it was out of your way, and you give it away and the game gets very fast.
“I’m happy, but at the same time we have to improve a lot. “
Saka has scored four goals for the season with his winner, but Arteta wants more from the 21-year-old.
“It can improve a lot,” added Arteta. “He has had moments in the game where he has been really good and then moments where he can improve and ask for more of himself, especially in the defensive phase.
“There were times when we allowed their left back to progress in the game and break our press too easily. There are many things to improve. “
Arsenal secured victory despite seven changes from their weekend win over Liverpool and Arteta was delighted with the mentality of those he brought into the starting line-up.
“Today there were times when we had to suffer and we lost too many duels in the middle of the park,” he said. “But the way the guys try and their hunger to win is there, and you can see it. “
