Mikel Arteta reveals he ‘did not know anything about’ the response to Arsenal’s celebrations after beating Liverpool 3-1 but defends his side for bringing ‘passion to the game’

Mikel Arteta has claimed he was not aware of criticism of Arsenal’s celebrations following their 3-1 win over Liverpool last weekend.

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher was particularly critical of the behaviour of Arsenal’s players after the final whistle, with captain Martin Odegaard seen taking a picture of the club’s photographer.

But Arteta has defended his team, and insisted they did not go overboard.

When asked if he had heard the criticism aimed at his side, Arteta said: ‘No because they told me today. I didn’t know anything about it.

‘No, but I love it. I’ve seen managers at the Emirates away on their knees, personally I love it because it brings a passion to the game. When it’s done in a natural and unique way.’

Arteta has denied the celebrations showed a lack of maturity from his players

Arteta was pleased with the passion his players showed after the game, and had no problem with captain Martin Odegaard having fun with the club photographer

Despite feeling his players had done nothing wrong, Arteta refused to hit out at the coverage of his Arsenal side since last week.

‘I don’t agree with that,’ he added on whether Arsenal have been treated unfairly.

‘In my life, what I’ve heard in the last five days, it’s all positive. Do you want to hear the negative part or the positive part? I think it was positive. Every time I walk in the street it’s lots of pride. I don’t have that impression at all.’

Arsenal have now won their last three league games to move to within two points of leaders Liverpool heading into Sunday’s trip to West Ham.

Bukayo Saka limped off in the latter stages of last week’s game at the Emirates, but Arteta is hopeful he will be fit to face the Hammers.

‘He’s been recovering this week and he looks OK,’ Arteta said.