Smith unhappy with mistakes as Norwich thrashed by Arsenal
Norwich head coach Dean Smith was left bemoaning individual errors as he admitted standards had “dropped massively” following a Boxing Day thrashing at the hands of Arsenal.
A brace from Bukayo Saka eithersideofarareKieranTierney strike had the Gunners on course for three points before alateAlexandreLacazettepenalty and a goal for substitute Emile Smith Rowe secured a comfortable 5-0 win.
The victory leaves Arsenal six points clear in fourth place astheypickedupback-to-back away wins for the first time in the league this season.
While the visitors continued a decent run of form, Norwich remain rooted to the bottom of the table.
Smith was left unhappy withthecostlymistakeswhich sawhissidefallshortofthelevels he has demanded since replacing Daniel Farke.
He said: “It was very difficult to be honest, I didn’t see that coming.
“The last game (a 2-0 loss to Aston Villa) first half was poor but two games ago we were goingtoe-to-toewithManUnited and had fans out of their seats.
“This was just as flat a performance as we have had and it was littered with unforced errors. We’ve got to be better than that and we are better than that, unfortunately the standards have dropped off massively from the Manchester United game, there are reasonsforthatbutI’mnothereto make excuses.”
Meanwhile, it was a fine display from Arteta’s side and the Spaniard was left purring over the performance. “I’m very happy,” he said.
“I think in general, collectively and individually, we had
some big performances and you don’t win 5-0 away from home if you don’t do that so I am happy with all the boys.”
Arteta highlighted the progressionmadeoverthecourse of the season, having beaten
Norwich1-0inthereturngame when it was his side – and not the Canaries – who kicked off at the foot of the table.
Asked if the belief his players were showing was a result of the different feel within the
squad, he replied: “Yes, probably. The direction the team is taking, the unity we have been showing in general and the support we have been getting in every ground is very much linked with the way we can transmit and the way we want toplay.Thatiswhatwearehere for, to create enjoyment and if they enjoy it I’m sure people will enjoy watching them play, they really like each other and you can see that.”