Arteta’s side have scored just once in their last three games (Picture: Getty)
Mikel Arteta says Arsenal are unlikely to sign a striker in January despite his misfiring side struggling in front of goal yet again in the FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.
Arsenal crashed out of the competition on Sunday after a 2-0 defeat at the Emirates, undone by a Jakub Kiowor own goal and a late strike from Luis Diaz.
With Gabriel Jesus missing out due to a knee problem, Kai Havertz started up front against the Reds with Eddie Nketia named among the subs.
The hosts missed a number of chances to take the lead in the first-half, with Havertz and Martin Odegaard particularly wasteful in front of goal before being made to pay for their poor finishing in the second-half.
Arsenal have now lost their last three games in all competitions, losing to West Ham United and Fulham in the Premier League leading into today’s latest setback.
In those three games, the Gunners have managed 61 shots on goal – registering just one goal in the process.
Their blunt performances in the final third have underlined the need for another striker, with Ivan Toney among the options believed to be under consideration in north London.
Toney is on Arsenal’s list of striker targets (Picture: Getty)
Another injury for Jesus could also heighten their need for more firepower but Arteta has played down the possibility of a new addition up front this month.
At the moment, it doesn’t look realistic,’ Arteta told beIN SPORTS. ‘What my job is and what we have to do is improve our players and try to get somewhere with the players we have and get better results.’
Arteta was further quizzed on January plans in his post-match press conference, again suggesting his focus will be on getting more out of the options he currently has available to him.
‘One thing is what we need and another is what we can do. What we can do is stick behind those players and make sure we stick behind those players.’
On growing pressure from Arsenal supporters to sign a striker, Arteta continued: What I beg from the supporters is that they are behind the team.
‘Stick behind the team, they are incredibly good. They deserve the support with their attitude.’
MORE : Jamie Carragher feels ‘real’ Luis Diaz is back after Liverpool win at Arsenal
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