Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on one of the veterans in his squad as the Gunners continue their fight to turn around what has been a disappointing season so far. 

The Gunners managed to reach the Europa League final under Unai Emery last term but they were thrashed by London rivals Chelsea in a result which denied them Champions League football for yet another season.

Even though Arsenal were actually sitting in third place in the league table back in early October, a terrible run of form saw the club say goodbye to Emery before former Gunner Mikel Arteta was appointed as his replacement.

Following the arrival of the Spaniard from Manchester City, the Gunners have displayed a clear improvement in their performances, having won two of their last three games in all competitions.

Some may believe Arteta has inherited an under-strength squad but the Arsenal boss has shown his full support for stars like David Luiz, who happen to be playing a leadership role in the team.

According to the Gunners’ manager, the Brazilian’s efforts ever since his arrival have delighted him so far. Luiz was once again included in the starting eleven against Crystal Palace last Saturday and Arteta has lauded the defender for the part he has played.

“Yes, that’s what I wanted to demand of him,” Arteta said, as quoted by Metro 

“He is a player that has won more trophies than anybody else in that dressing room. We have to use that in a very powerful way. I wanted him to step up, I wanted him to put all his qualities, his personality and his experience, towards the team and he made a big step forward.

“I am very, very pleased with him. Is he becoming more consistent?

“I hope so. In the games he has played under me so far, he has been terrific. His attitude in training, the way he communicates with his team-mates, his desire to still learn, it’s superb. I am delighted with him.”

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