Arteta defends David Raya after cheap mistakes give away two goals

Mikel Arteta has refused to blame David Raya for his two errors, which gave away two cheap goals to Luton in Arsenal’s dramatic 4-3 win.

The Gunners were leading 2-1, when Raya failed to catch a crossed ball, which landed on Elijah Adebayo, who leveled the score.

Only 8 minutes later, Raya was again the center of attention as he was unable to stop a reasonably tame shot from Ross Barkley to allow Luton into a shock 3-2 lead.

Nevertheless, Arteta refused to point the finger and stated that his whole team was lacking concentration at that point.

More on this topic:

Arteta on his extension: ‘It will happen’

“We have to defend better the situations as a team. There are certain things leading to the goals.” he said.

“And it is not about blaming him (Raya), we have never done it and we’re not going to do it now. It is about how the team reacts to that because it’s going to happen and I love that response.”

“I think we can defend much better the goals, that’s for sure.”

Arsenal’s last-gasp win over Luton ensured the Gunners stay on top after the midweek round.