Arsenal legend insists Arteta must ‘challenge for one and two’

Arsenal legend Lee Dixon insists the Gunner should be “challenging for one and two” in the Premier League, with Mikel Arteta considered to have “a massive mountain to climb” in north London.

There have been early signs of encouragement in Arteta’s his short time at the helm in north London, and the Spaniard picked up his first win after an impressive performance in a 2-0 win over Manchester United on New Year’s Day.

But there is still a long way to go, and they will struggle to get into the top four this season after such a poor start.

Dixon told talkSPORT: “He’s not going to go in and get in the top four in the first six months – that is not going to happen.

“It is a long-term project; there is no doubt about that.

“But, ultimately, any coach that comes in, they will all tell you it’s all about players; the game has always been about players and it will always be about players, because they are the ones who put the plans into action.

“So is the squad good enough? You would look at it after last night and say ‘yes’.

“But moving forward… forget top four and top six, this team – my Arsenal Football Club – has to be challenging for one and two; be second pushing for first. That is the level they need to get back to, but it is a massive mountain to climb from where we are right now.

“I don’t want to go overboard on his progress three games in, but there are definitely signs.

“The Emirates hasn’t been like that in many years – it almost sent goosebumps down my spine.”