Arsenal director Josh Kroenke was spotted at the Emirates on Thursday night as the Gunners confirmed top spot in their Europa League group against FC Zurich. The North London side had to match or better PSV Eindhoven's result to ensure they could finish in first after a frustrating loss in the Netherlands a week prior.
Kieran Tierney's strike from the edge of the box gave the side lift off, but they failed to sustain that pressure as the game dragged on at just a one-goal advantage. It led to the visitors causing some problems late in the game, but Mikel Arteta's men managed to see out the victory.
"I expected it to be a tough match. I’ve watched them in the last few games – how they’ve changed since their new manager arrived, how they played against Bodo," The manager told reporters after the game. "You’ve seen it and it was really difficult to get any real momentum with the way that the game developed."
READ MORE: Arsenal finally have their own Wayne Rooney as Mikel Arteta faces crucial Chelsea decision
However, the end result will be the main thing to take from the game for the Gunners, confirming their place in the round of 16 and avoiding playing an extra game against a side dropping from the Champions League. The presence of Josh Kroenke - Arsenal director and son of owner Stan - will have also been a welcome sight.
The 42-year-old has been much more involved with the club in recent years, which was seen as he was featured in the recent Amazon All or Nothing documentary on the club. It comes as the side makes preparations for the January transfer window, with a plan already in place.
According to the Telegraph, plans have already been signed off on further reinforcements in the winter market, with a winger being targetted. It represents a huge leap of faith in Arteta's project, with the January window often being one that the club would avoid making much investment in.
There will be hopes that any move could push the side that step closer to consistently challenging for the Premier League title.
READ NEXT:
What Aaron Ramsdale did in Emirates Stadium tunnel ahead of Zurich that Arsenal fans will love
Arsenal player ratings vs FC Zurich - Tierney's Chelsea claim, Lokonga impresses, Jesus angst
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta responds to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's four-word Chelsea call out
Tomiyasu, Saka, Tierney: Arsenal injury news and who will miss Chelsea Premier League clash
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Tomiyasu injury update, Europa League reaction, Chelsea call
