Arteta - Xhaka's an example to the rest

Mikel Arteta was left singing Granit Xhaka's praises following Thursday's 2-0 win over Southampton.

Our midfielder returned from an ankle injury to excel in the middle of the park at St Mary's Stadium - and our head coach was quick to highlight Xhaka's influence on the team after the game.

 

"He's a big presence," Arteta said. "He's someone who doesn't hide. He has very clear principles and values, and he puts that on the pitch every time he's there.

 

"His commitment is excellent and he's a really good example for the rest. But I don't like to focus on any individual.

 

"Today the starters, the subs and the players that I didn't use all had the right energy, with the right commitment and the right intention every time they jumped into the pitch.