Raheem Sterling of Arsenal
Raheem Sterling of Arsenal (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC)
Mikel Arteta has claimed he is to blame for Raheem Sterling's lack of opportunities at Arsenal this season but more minutes could come soon.
Sterling arrived at the Emirates on transfer deadline day in August, moving on loan from Chelsea. The former Manchester City winger has struggled to threaten Arteta's starting lineup so far this term, however.
More than half of the 29-year-old's minutes have come in the Carabao Cup, with Sterling earning just one start in the Premier League. Arteta remains pleased with the veteran's application however and admitted he would be required to offer Sterling more time on the pitch.
"I would like to see him more, to be fair," said the Spaniard ahead of West Ham. "This is down to me.
"He is trying his best, his application, his commitment around the team has been exceptional and now it is time for me to give him more minutes."
Sterling was denied a place on the pitch against Sporting CP in the Champions League on Wednesday evening when Arteta had to respond to injury. The winger was set to be introduced from the bench but was denied.
Fortunately for Arteta, his reaction was not problematic. When asked how he responded, Arteta said: "A smile on his face, fortunately for me.
Mikel Arteta with Raheem Sterling in Arsenal training
Mikel Arteta with Raheem Sterling in Arsenal training
"It’s one of these things that happens in football. Unfortunately it happened to him and he reacted in the best possible way, which is understanding. He has been in this game a long time and he knows that this is something I cannot control."
Arteta shouldering the blame for a hardworking player not featuring more will be familiar to those who follow the Gunners. Before his exit Eddie Nketiah found similar treatment as he struggled to command a place in the starting XI at the Emirates.
"This is one of the hazards to leave someone like Eddie out of the squad, but at the moment everybody has been fit and we have so many options up front," Arteta said in 2021.
"But it hurts as well because of how Eddie behaves and trains every day and because he's a player from our academy, but he will have his chance. He needs to be patient and he's showing no signs of lacking attitude or anything like that, it's the complete opposite.
"He's a joy to work with and he deserves minutes and if he doesn't get it, it's just my fault."
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