Battling Ben hails team spirit at Gunners
BEN White says Arsenal’s “attitude and desire” have played a key part in their perfect start to the season.
The Gunners are the only team in England to hold a 100 per cent record after Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Magalhaes goals cancelled out Aleksandar Mitrovic’s opener to earn a 2-1 victory over Fulham.
For Gabriel, his late winner atoned for his error which led to Mitrovic breaking the deadlock after the Brazil defender waås caught dawdling in possession.
The win leaves Mikel Arteta’s side top of the table ahead of the visit of Aston Villa on Wednesday with a trip to Manchester United to follow.
“It’s outstanding,” White replied when asked about the spirit at Arsenal.
“Gabi had a little hiccup and the reaction that he gave was outstanding and helped us get the win, really.
“I think the attitude and the desire we all have every day in training is showing on the pitch now.
“It’s obviously always nice to get the three points. They made it tough for us and we made it tough for ourselves with the goal but the reaction from the boys was outstanding.
“With Fulham, you always have a physical game. They’ve got a big boy in Mitrovic up top and he’s hard to handle, but the boys did well.”
Mitrovic’s opener saw him reach 100 goals for Fulham as he hit his fourth of the season, eclipsing his return from the whole of the Whites’ relegation campaign two years ago.
The Serbia striker was a handful for Gabriel and William Saliba as he brushed off any criticism he could not cut it in the top flight.
“I don’t really care to be honest,” he said.
“I know I had the confidence, the manager had the confidence, my team-mates had confidence in me, and what other people say I’m not really bothered.
“People have different opinions but I focus on myself, focus on keep working hard for the team, and when the team plays well I know we will create chances and I will score.
“It sounds nice, and I’m really happy to score 100 goals for this beautiful club, and hopefully there will be many more to come.”