Arteta hails Arsenal's statement rout of Leeds

Mikel Arteta declared that Arsenal's comprehensive 4-0 victory against Leeds demonstrated their ability to manage the demands of the title contention in the Premier League.

The team snapped a streak of three league matches without a win by putting on a dominant show at Elland Road during Saturday's encounter.

Arsenal held the advantage by half-time courtesy of a header from Martin Zubimendi and an unfortunate own goal by Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

Goals in the latter period from Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus sealed a crucial triumph for Arsenal, following accusations of faltering under pressure after their lead in the standings had narrowed lately.

Draws without goals versus Liverpool and Nottingham Forest were followed by a loss at home to Manchester United the previous week.

Supporters of Arsenal grew more concerned as recollections of squandered advantages in prior title challenges during Arteta's tenure resurfaced.

However Arteta maintained that his squad stayed positive amid rising scrutiny and they produced an energetic showing that justified his confidence.

"We are delighted of course. It was a strong display and a strong outcome particularly given the circumstances we achieved it in," he remarked.

"We understood the challenge posed by the match and the opposition ahead with their current momentum and approach to the game along with the atmosphere the venue provides.

"Moreover after three league outcomes that went against us we were determined to demonstrate our desire. And I believe we conveyed that message clearly today."

Arsenal coped well without Bukayo Saka who picked up a hip problem during the warm-up and Arteta praised the substitute Noni Madueke from England for his contribution to the opening pair of goals.

He delivered an excellent pass for Zubimendi's first strike and then sent in a corner that Darlow mishandled into his own net.

Arteta believed Madueke's influence from the reserves emphasised Arsenal's useful bench options.

"He was prepared because you cannot achieve that in just two minutes," Arteta noted. "His preparation and anticipation for his chance showed and he delivered today with genuine influence.

"Prior to kick-off we expected a challenging match.

"We anticipated needing to handle various phases and rely on everyone performing their duties and the team carried that out superbly."