"The game opened up a little bit and we looked a real threat. Very pleased. It's a joy to play in this stadium with that energy, it's something incredible." On the Gunners' threat from set pieces: "It was one of the best [set-piece performances], we could have scored more and I'm very pleased with that.

Of course, in Arsenal’s backline it was Jakub Kiwior who stepped in, Arteta decided against moving Timber into a centre-back role and playing Thomas Partey as a full-back. Despite Kiwior’s criticism at Arsenal, Arteta put his faith in the £20m defender, and he stood big against United.