Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has spoken to the media ahead of this weekend's clash with Newcastle United.
Arsenal's 1-1 draw with Manchester City last weekend left them five points adrift of Liverpool in the Premier League table. A loss to Newcastle could create an eight-point gap, which would make the title race a lot harder for Arteta’s men.
Arteta sends condolences to Billy Vigar's family
The Spanish head coach first spoke on former Arsenal academy player Billy Vigar, who sadly passed away this week aged 21 following an incident at a non-League match.
“Shocking news, when I got in yesterday. Straight away thinking about the family and how difficult it is to go through something like this.
“Full support with the family and thoughts with all their loved ones.”
Team news
Arteta was then asked about team news and provided updates on a range of players, including Bukayo Saka: "Nothing to report there, he played the game as anticipated."
On Martin Odegaard: "Martin will be training with us the next two days, so hopefully he will be fit."
On Noni Madueke: "No update yet."
Saliba's new contract
Arsenal defender William Saliba is poised to sign a new contract by committing his future to the side, despite interest from Real Madrid. Arteta gave a cryptic update on the Frenchman before explaining that he hopes many players will want to join the Gunners to bolster their career.
"Hopefully it'll be everyone in the world asking very soon. But let's leave that to the club. He certainly. We've seen recently so many players willing and they see this as the best opportunity to see this as the place to continue their careers.
"We (him and Saliba) had different ideas. But in the end we came to the same conclusion."
Arsenal must up their game against Newcastle
Finally, Arteta had praise for Newcastle and manager Eddie Howe and admits that his must up their game against the Magpies this weekend.
"I always praise the work that Eddie has done. What atmosphere they create as well.
"We know we're going to have to be much more efficient if we're going to win there."