Tony Adams makes intriguing claim over Mikel Arteta’s future at Arsenal

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Tony Adams has told Stadium Astro that Mikel Arteta’s future at Arsenal is directly linked to that of sporting director Edu and whether pressure mounts on the Brazilian – after the Gunners suffered another loss, this time at the hands of Everton.

The Gunners continue to edge closer to an early relegation battle after Everton stole a narrow three points at Goodison Park, thanks to an own goal from Rob Holding and a Yerry Mina effort – cancelling out Nicolas Pepe’s penalty.

The signs are bad for Arsenal. The Gunners have failed to win a Premier League match since they beat Manchester United 1-0 in early November. That’s a possible two points from 21, having lost five of their last seven and drawn the other two.

Arsenal legend Adams was asked how long Arteta has in the Gunners hotseat and thinks Arteta’s future could come into question when Edu’s position – after a number of questionable signings such as Willian and Cedric Soares – is under threat.

“As long as the sports director doesn’t come under too much pressure, he stays in position. But the minute someone questions the sports director, what are these players you’re putting to the manager. Then, you sack the coach, or the sporting director.”

TBR’s view – Surely Edu needs to be under more pressure than Arteta?

Arteta is to blame for team selection. He continues to stick with his more experienced players rather than giving the likes of Reiss Nelson and Emile Smith-Rowe a chance – though he did start Eddie Nketiah and Ainsley Maitland-Niles on Saturday.

But Edu surely deserves more criticism. Willian was a hugely expensive signing and he does not look half the player he was at Chelsea. The decision to give the Brazilian a three-year deal with many millions has seen the winger get comfortable.

Soares is not getting in the side over a faltering Hector Bellerin, Edu failed to sign a replacement for Mesut Ozil, they let Emi Martinez leave and many more instances of summer activity that can be criticised – means Edu is the one closer to the sack.