Mikel Arteta delivers scathing verdict on Arsenal's defeat to Fulham - ‘Worst performance of the season’

Mikel Arteta believes his Arsenal side produced their worst performance of the season after a 2-1 defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Bukayo Saka got The Gunners off to a fine start in the fifth minute, but Raul Jimenez and Bobby De Cordova-Reid responded to leave Arsenal two points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool having played a game more.

“We weren’t good enough; it’s as simple as that,” Arteta told Sky Sports. “We conceded two very similar goals, and we didn't generate enough today.

"Our rhythm wasn't good enough in attack, and we were second best in our reaction in defence.

“We had a great performance against Liverpool [drew 1-1], and we had a great performance against West Ham [lost 2-0], but we didn't win.

“Today was the one you have to isolate because it was the worst performance of the season."

Arteta looked to add fresh impetus to his side by bringing on the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard and Reiss Nelson in the second half, but those changes failed to turn the tide away from a Fulham victory.

“We tried to change the dynamic of the game and to have much more threat in our actions, but we never got going because we gave every ball away and could not dominate the direct play,” Arteta explained. “If you don't do that, it's very difficult to get any momentum.”

The Spaniard was also bullish in his response after being asked if he needed any January reinforcements, and believes there is enough quality in the squad to reignite their title push.

When asked what he needs in January, he replied: “Do what we've done in 19 of our other games, with the same players.”

The Gunners will now turn their attention to the FA Cup, ahead of a third-round tie against Liverpool at the Emirates on January 7.

They are back in Premier League action on January 20 when they host Crystal Palace.

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