Press conference

‘Vieira’s an Arsenal legend, it’s great he's back'

Patrick Vieira
Patrick Vieira

Monday night at Emirates Stadium will see two former Arsenal captains in the dugouts as Mikel Arteta goes head to head with Patrick Vieira.

The Frenchman - now in charge of Crystal Palace - will return to N5 for the first time since his departure in 2005 and his opposite number knows it will be a significant moment.

 

"He is an Arsenal legend and I hope he gets the reception he deserves for what he did for the club, not only as a player but also what he transmitted as a person," Arteta said.

 

"He was a captain of the club in the most successful era in the last many years and it is great to have him back.

 

"Recognising him the right manner, I think it's really important and I'm sure that that will be the case."

 

Vieira has made a positive impression since taking over as Eagles boss, so has Arteta been surprised by his instant impact?

 

"Well, he has already a couple of experiences [as a manager] and he knows the league really well," he said. "You can see the touch that he is trying to put in the team and the things he is trying to implement there.

 

"Obviously, Patrick knows the league much better probably than any other manager because he has experienced it himself as a player and it's great that he's had the opportunity to do that."

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