Speaking after Arsenal's slump/malaise/crisis/apocalypse continued with a desperate 2-0 home defeat to Swansea City on Saturday, vice-captain Mikel Arteta has said that Arsenal's players are to blame and that fans are entitled to be upset:

"They've got all the right to be upset with us," said the Spaniard. "We can't keep asking them to be behind us if afterwards we don't give them back what they deserve. So it's up to us.

"We have to respect what they do. We will get criticised and it's part of our job, but the main thing is everyone gives 100 per cent and that's what we're trying to do.

"We can't keep asking the fans to stay behind us. They will be very frustrated and it's up to us to put it right."

Arsenal were booed off the pitch at both half and full-time on Saturday, and failed to respond to the crowd, who admittedly were extremely quiet despite the pledges of BSM marchers to bring their atmosphere into the stadium.

They didn't exactly have much to cheer about, but it seems the players and staff are aware of this and are determined to set it right.

Arteta had more to say on the subject:

"I think they've been understanding until now. Hopefully they can be with us because it will be better for everyone.

"But, as well, it's very understandable that they have to shout. They are disappointed and the only chance they have is on a Saturday on the football pitch.

"When there are bad results, obviously everyone will be criticised. Not only the manager but the players and the staff, we are no different. It's our fault if we haven't done it."

You do wonder why the players hadn't realised this earlier, but better late than never, I suppose.

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