Mikel Arteta has given an update on Arsenal's transfer plans ahead of his press conference this afternoon.
Mikel Arteta (Image: (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images))
Mikel Arteta insists he ‘loves’ the way Frank Lampard has Coventry City playing – as he plots their downfall at the Emirates Stadium on Friday evening.
The Sky Blues play their first Premier League match in 25 years tomorrow night, against the reigning champions who bludgeoned their way to the title last season.
It is a match that pits Arteta and Lampard – who in their playing days were two of the foremost midfielders in the division – in opposite dug-outs.
The Spaniard was careful not to give his opposite number any material for the dressing room wall.
“I think what they've done as a club is remarkable. What Frank has done is incredible,” Arteta said.
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“After so many years without being in the Premier League, they have the right to do that and they've done it in a really special way.
“Not only that they are where they are, they absolutely deserve where they are. I love the way they play and the courage that they show in every game.
“I know all those stats because I've watched a lot of their games. I know what we're facing, and he was at Chelsea as well.
“I think what he's done is remarkable, and I'm sure they will show the ambition on Friday night. We are ready because we know what to expect.”
Between them Lampard and Arteta played nearly 900 Premier League matches and could quite easily have taken a more comfortable route into retirement.
Don't miss Saturday's souvenir edition of the Coventry Telegraph with reactions, pictures, and reports from Coventry City's return to the Premier League
Arteta says he understands why they didn’t. “Probably because we share the passion and the love for the game. And that's something that fulfils you as a person, and it gives purpose to your life.
“That's the reason why I do what I do with the people that do it as well. It brings me so much joy and happiness. It's a part of my life that is really fulfilling, and I really enjoy it.
“I've seen a few videos about him and I on the pitch, what a player he was. He was one of my favourite midfielders by far. What he could produce, he could do absolutely everything on that midfield. He was a top, top class player.”
Arteta also revealed he will have Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice and his disposal but not Jurrien Timber. There is less clarity on Bruno Guimaraes who came off against Manchester City in the Community Shield “Let's see how it is. He's evolving really well, but let's see for tomorrow.”