Arsenal struggled in front of goal for a third game running (Picture: Getty)
Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal’s recent woes in front of goal could be psychological after their frustrating FA Cup exit against Liverpool.
The Gunners lost for a third game running as they were knocked out in the third round after a 2-0 defeat at home to Jurgen Klopp’s side.
The hosts squandered several golden opportunities when the scores were level and have now failed to score in two of their last three games after wasteful displays against West Ham and Fulham.
Arteta’s side now enjoy a 13-day break between their next game and the Spaniard hopes the break will afford his players a chance to ‘reset’ and rediscover their scoring touch.
‘Probably it has,’ Arteta said when quizzed on whether his side’s lack of goals had become a psychological issue.
‘Especially after today – more than it was against Fulham or West Ham before that. That’s why I think we need to reset.
‘It is very difficult. But if the team is getting hammered and not playing well and not deserving to win football matches I’d be much more worried.
The Gunners were made to rue their misses after Liverpool scored two late goals to win (Picture: Getty)
‘I’m worried because I love winning and we have to win many more games. That’s the thing we have to change and probably what has to be reset is up here.’
Gabriel Jesus missed Sunday’s clash due to injury, with Kai Havertz filling in for the Brazilian up front.
But it was another wasteful display from the Germany international that may only further highlight Arsenal’s need to bring in attacking firepower in January.
More: Trending
The Gunners have long-standing admiration for Brentford’s Ivan Toney, but Arteta was not confident about any incomings when asked after the game about Arsenal’s transfer plans.
‘At the moment it does not look realistic,’ Arteta acknowledged. ‘What my job is and what we have to do is improve our players and try to get better results with the players we have.’
MORE : Erik ten Hag confident Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS can restore Manchester United glory years
MORE : Mikel Arteta reveals why Arsenal star Eddie Nketiah was benched for Liverpool defeat
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.