Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta admits the players are to blame for their poor form

03 December 2012 08:48
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta believes the fans have every right to be upset with their current run of form.

The Gunners were booed off the pitch following Saturday's shock 2-0 defeat at home to Swansea, to leave Arsenal in tenth place and 15 points behind league leaders Manchester United. Arteta accepts the criticism coming the players' way and admits it is up to them to turn things around quickly.

"They've got all the right to be upset with us," said Arteta.

"We can't keep asking them to be behind us if afterwards we don't give them back what they deserve. So it's up to us.

"We have to respect what they do. We will get criticised and it's part of our job, but the main thing is everyone gives 100 per cent and that's what we're trying to do.

"We can't keep asking the fans to stay behind us. They will be very frustrated and it's up to us to put it right.

"I think they've been understanding until now. Hopefully they can be with us because it will be better for everyone.

"But, as well, it's very understandable that they have to shout. They are disappointed and the only chance they have is on a Saturday on the football pitch.

"When there are bad results, obviously everyone will be criticised. Not only the manager but the players and the staff, we are no different. It's our fault if we haven't done it."

Source: team_talk