Arsenal - Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted he is to blame for Raheem Sterling’s underwhelming form at the Emirates, suggesting the winger needs more opportunities to prove himself.
Sterling, 29, joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea on deadline day in August but has struggled to make an impact. Despite being a seasoned Premier League star with a trophy-laden career, the former Manchester City forward has found game time limited, with nearly half of his minutes coming in the Carabao Cup.
The England international has managed just one Premier League start so far, with his most recent appearance coming as a substitute in Arsenal’s dramatic 5-2 win over West Ham. His lack of contribution has drawn criticism, with pundit Stan Collymore branding him one of the flops of the season.
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“Raheem Sterling has been a massive disappointment,” Collymore told Metro. “He said he was going to give the club his best work, but that hasn’t happened. He’s stunk the place out so far and hasn’t elevated the dressing room as expected.”
Raheem Sterling and Mikel Arteta
Mikel Arteta with Raheem Sterling (Image credit: Getty Images)
However, Arteta defended Sterling’s professionalism and acknowledged that the responsibility lies with him to provide more opportunities.
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“I would like to see him more, to be fair, and this is down to me,” Mikel Arteta said. “He’s trying his best. His application and commitment around the team have been exceptional, and now it’s time for me to give him more minutes.”
The Arsenal boss also indicated that Sterling remains in his plans for upcoming fixtures. “That’s the intention. That’s why I put him on against Forest and Sporting, to get him into that rhythm because he can really impact the team as well,” Arteta added.
Arsenal will welcome Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
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