Mikel Arteta beat Antonio Conte for the first time on Saturday
(Picture: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)Mikel Arteta says Saturday’s north London derby victory over Tottenham will give his players the belief they are ready to compete at the top level - but refused to be drawn on whether they are now contenders for the Premier League title.
The Gunners ran out 3-1 winners at the Emirates, thanks to goals from Thomas Partey, Gabriel Jesus and Granit Xhaka.
Harry Kane had cancelled out Partey’s opener from the penalty spot - his 100th goal away from home in the Premier League - but after Jesus had restored the lead, Emerson Royal’s sending off ruined any hope of a Spurs’ comeback even before Xhaka’s clincher.
The victory continues an impressive start to the campaign for Arteta’s men, who have now won seven of their first eight matches.
The one criticism of Arsenal’s form had been the absence of a victory over a big six rival, their sole defeat coming against Manchester United at Old Trafford, but the Gunners have now ticked that box in emphatic style.
“[It was] 100 per cent needed because when you play such a big game you want to win and those opinions were correct - when you look at the stats and put it in that context, you can do it,” Arteta said.
"The message is for the players and everybody here connected to the club that we are able to play at this level and against this kind of opponent. That should give them confidence and belief.”
Victory puts the Gunners four points clear at the top of the Premier League after eight matches, though Manchester City can move back within a point should they beat rivals Manchester United tomorrow.
When asked whether his young side are now officially challengers for City’s crown, Arteta said: “I leave that to you guys! We’re just at the start. We are really happy with where we are.
“It’s great, looking at it and seeing the club in this position gives you a great feeling. But we are focused, it is a really humble and hungry team, we know where we are, that we’ve done nothing yet and that we still need to improve. That’s the direction we are taking."
