A “very, very angry” Mikel Arteta conceded that Arsenal’s performance as they slumped to defeat against West Ham had not been up to the standard required to win the Premier League and said his players must “feel the pain” before their trip to Nottingham Forest in midweek.
Arteta admitted that West Ham were worthy winners against his toothless side but refused to blame the number of injuries to attacking players that forced him to start with Mikel Merino as a makeshift centre‑forward.
Jarrod Bowen’s 50th Premier League goal sealed three points for Graham Potter’s side as the substitute Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off in the second half.
West Ham’s win was only their second since Graham Potter was appointed last month and he paid tribute to his side’s dogged approach.
“First of all suffer, 24- 48 hours, suffer,” said Arteta when asked how his team will prepare for that game.”And feel the pain.
