Tim Sherwood labels Mikel Arteta tactics as ‘boring’, says players have ‘no clue’

Mon 4 October 2021 17:15, UK

in his analysis of Arsenal’s 0-0 draw with Brighton – claiming they have “no clue” under the Spaniard.

Arsenal came into the match on Saturday evening with their tails up, having beaten Tottenham in the North London derby 3-1.

But they failed to build on that excellent win, with Brighton much the better side at The Amex. Graham Potter’s tactics outclassed the Gunners.

His high press pinned Arsenal in and really, Brighton should have scored – boasting 21 attempts on goal. It was a stark contrast to last weekend.

Indeed, Arsenal’s draw was compounded by Spurs going above them in the table. Sherwood laid into £96k-a-week () Arteta, and his tactics.

“Arsenal have no clue when to go long. They need to be more flexible in their play,” “It looked boring.”

Sherwood on Arteta tactics: Where did Arsenal boss get it wrong?

Arsenal managed to beat the press against Tottenham. That is because both Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith-Rowe could find midfield gaps.

Dele Alli and Tanguy Ndombele’s attacking style of play left Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg exposed – and Smith-Rowe and Odegaard capitalised to win 3-1.

Against Brighton, they were pressing just as high – but also shut off the midfield gaps. It forced Arsenal to go longer.

But with Shane Duffy, Lewis Dunk and Dan Burn in defence, the Seagulls defence mopped up. They also prevented Ben White getting on the ball.

Potter clearly knew exactly what he wanted to do, and the players carried out his instructions. All that was missing for Brighton, was a goal.