Arsenal manager gives honest opinion on St James’ Park atmosphere before Newcastle United clash
Newcastle United welcome Arsenal to St James’ Park in the Premier League on Sunday.
Mikel Arteta has hailed St James’ Park as having “one of the best” atmospheres in English football.
Newcastle United host Arsenal on Sunday with both sides flying high after victories against League One opposition in midweek. Likewise, the two teams are aiming to get back in the Premier League win column following draws last weekend.
The Magpies boast a favourable record over Arsenal - especially at home - in recent times. Since the Saudi-backed takeover, Eddie Howe has claimed four wins from five against the Gunners at St James’ Park.
Mikel Arteta on St James’ Park atmosphere
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Arteta praised the “electric” atmosphere that Newcastle fans generate. He told reporters: “Incredibly beautiful. One of the best atmospheres in this country. They play every single ball with you. It’s electric. It’s one team in one city. It’s a great atmosphere to play in.
Mikel Arteta on Eddie Howe
Arteta also had kind words to say about Howe while acknowledging the test that lies ahead. He added: “I always praise the work Eddie (Howe) and his staff have done there. They have managed to create such an atmosphere at home and a clear identity.
"It is going to be another tough test. We know we are going to have to be more efficient to win the game and we are going to work on that in the next couple of days.”
Eddie Howe response
The Toon boss is relishing the battle on Tyneside as he aims for his second league win of the campaign. Howe said this morning: “It's always been competitive against Arsenal in the games that I've been here, and there has been an edge to those games because both teams are desperate to win.
“We encourage that. The more competitive we are, the better we play - so we need to bring that side of our game."