The manager of Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, expressed his admiration for Luton Town and their “remarkable” run to the Premier League, but he also predicted a challenging encounter at Kenilworth Road on Tuesday.
“It’s a motivating location, and their accomplishments are astounding. Arteta told reporters on Monday, “The way they did it and what they transmit is an amazing story.”
After defeating Wolverhampton 2-1 on Saturday, Arsenal moved two points clear of Liverpool atop the standings.
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Meanwhile, Luton, who made the jump from non-league football to the Premier League in nine years, is currently 17th in their first season in the top flight, two points above the drop zone.
“They deserve all the credit they’re getting from last season and the close games they’ve had this season,” Arteta said. “(Tuesday) will be an intense and difficult match.
“(Rob Edwards) is a great coach and a really special person. You can tell that in the way his team plays.
“I think they’re a really good team and that doesn’t reflect in their results. It’s inspiring to play them and we’re ready to go.”
On Saturday, Bukayo Saka, who scored against Wolves on Saturday, might play in his 200th game for the team.
“It’s not bad, is it? It’s gone fast but it shows his consistency over the years. The impact he’s had on the team has been positive,” Arteta said.
“It’s like watching a kid be raised and as he’s got older and more mature, he’s kept the same level of humbleness.
“Bukayo is a special guy, we have him with us and we hope to for many years to come. He wants no limits and his teammates are getting to understand that now. There’s room for him to keep growing.”
The decision about defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, who was substituted against Wolves “as a precaution,” will be determined on Tuesday, according to Arteta.
Arteta remarked, “He’s a strong boy, hopefully, he will be fine.”
Following a contentious referee call that resulted in a 3-3 tie between Manchester City and Tottenham on Sunday, City manager Pep Guardiola stated to Sky Sports, “I will not do a Mikel Arteta comment.”
In a tirade following the game on November 4, Arteta had referred to a VAR check as an “absolute disgrace” during Arsenal’s 1-0 loss at Newcastle.
When asked whether he had smiled at all when he heard Guardiola utter his name, Arteta replied, “Please move on to the next (question), thank you.”