Sutton slams Arteta over Arsenal’s centre forward choice

Former Chelsea star Chris Sutton has expressed his disappointment in how manager Mikel Arteta has handled the Gunners’ centre forward.

Sutton, in a recent statement, slammed Arteta for sorting a new striker issue last summer even when it was obvious it could cost them.

The North London side, who are now battling for a second spot finish on the Premier League log were expected to sign a new No. 9 before the start of the current season, but failed to welcome a new face at Emirates.

Rather than sign a new striker, Arteta chose to make use of Kai Havertz as a striker, with Gabriel Jesus serving as his backup.

However, with the duo on the sideline for the season with injuries, Arteta has had to rely on midfielder Mikel Merino regularly in the role.

Speaking on The BBC’s Football Daily podcast, Sutton slammed Arteta for the lack of depth in the No. 9 position in the Gunners’ squad.

Arsenal, who are expected to sign new players in the summer, finished behind Manchester City in the previous two seasons, having come close to winning the Premier League title on the two occasions.

This season the Gunners are fighting to finish in second position this season with two matches to go.

A defeat in their next two games could witness Arsenal falling out of the spot they held onto for the majority of the season.