Mikel Arteta has admitted his ‘extraordinary’ youngsters are ‘putting a smile on his face’ after Arsenal comprehensively defeated Newcastle at the Emirates on Monday evening.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck either side of Bukayo Saka’s goal as the Gunners eased past a much-changed Newcastle to move into the top-half of the Premier League table.
It was a vintage second-half display from Arteta’s men, with dazzling youngsters Saka and Emile Smith Rowe once again catching the eye with their inventiveness at the Emirates.
Arteta hailed the influence of his youngsters, expressing his pride at how well they are developing under his stewardship.
He told Sky Sports: “When we are winning they put a smile on my face. I know what they are capable of doing, they are developing really well. The performances they are putting in are extraordinary.”
Smith Rowe set up Saka for Arsenal’s second and the 20-year-old now has five assists in ten appearances this season.
And the playmaker admitted he is relishing every minute he is playing having now cemented a permanent spot in Arteta’s XI.
“We enjoyed that so much, we’re coming together as a team so we’re really happy with the win and the three points,” he said.
“Everyone’s getting fit and we’re all getting together on the training pitch. Just the whole group is so much stronger and I think it’s showing on the pitch.”
“I’ve been a bit unfortunate with injuries but the manager has given me a chance and I’m so grateful, I just hope to repay him.
“Every opportunity I’m getting I just want to show him that I’m good enough to be in this team.”