Arteta: ‘We needed a magic moment and Bukayo produced it’

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has told BBC Sport his team needed something magical to break down Everton in their re-arranged Premier League at the Emirates Wednesday evening and Bukayo Saka provided it for his 10th goal of the season in 25 appearances.

The Gunners thrashed the visitors who had a former Arsenal player, Alex Iwobi in their midst.

Arsenal scored two goals in each half for a 4-0 win and Arsenal admitted his team found it difficult to break the Toffees defence in the opening half hour of the game.

“I am delighted with the win and the way we played after the first 25 minutes. We had some difficulties at the start. They are difficult to play against.

“Once we scored the first goal, the game unlocked. We needed a magic moment and Bukayo produced that. After that we grew and deserved to win the game.

“With the way they play, direct, second balls, a small lead isn’t enough.

“We played really well in the second half and could have scored more.

“I am delighted when I see the team play the way we want to.

“This league is a different story [no easy games]. We had big proof of that at Goodison. They made it difficult for Liverpool too.

“I’m really happy with the maturity and quality we showed.