Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said his side deserved to beat Everton and insisted he was still pleased with their performance after Saturday’s Premier League tie ended in a 0-0 draw .
Arsenal squandered a chance to close the gap at the top of the Premier League table after leaders Liverpool drew at home to Fulham, dominating possession and having the better chances but unable to beat Everton.
The Gunners are third with 30 points from 16 games, one point behind second-placed Chelsea, who host Brentford on Sunday.
“Well, I’m very disappointed not to win the game because obviously there’s one team that deserves to win. There’s only one and that’s Arsenal,” Arteta told reporters after his side’s second consecutive Premier League draw.
“We didn’t give anything away. We didn’t concede a goal, we dominated the direct play, didn’t let them run, there were no set pieces. Our pressing was outstanding. We created chances but failed to score in the last 20 metres. ball.
“In the end, you have to try to produce the highest probability of winning. When you draw games, you want more. Even if we win, we always want more, but other than putting the ball in the net, I can’t Ask the kids for more.”
Everton swarmed every time they came near the penalty area, denying the north London club a goal, while goalkeeper Jordan Pickford produced a series of fine saves.
“Thanks to them (Everton) too, for the block, to Pickford for the save, for the way they defended,” Arteta added.
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“Honestly, it’s hard to ask for anything else from the team. Personally, in this situation, could we have done a little better, delivered more quality and delivered magic moments? Yes, but it doesn’t easy.”
The Spanish coach made two substitutions in the second half, replacing captain Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice, and replacing Jorginho and 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri in midfield.
Arteta said Rice’s substitution was forced, adding: “Well, with Declan, I had to take him off because he felt something, a little problem.
“It’s a tactical decision for Martin to try and change the tempo, especially in this area. I know if Ethan comes in and scores, that’s a great substitute, but if he doesn’t score, you’re out Your captain. This is football.
“I’m sure they wanted to continue playing the full 90 minutes, but that’s why we brought in substitutes to help the team.”
Arsenal face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday before traveling across London to face the same opponents in the league on December 21.
