A frustrated Granit Xhaka has hit out at his team’s “character” after their 1-0 defeat by Sheffield United, as well as responding to Patrice Evra’s “bulls***” comments that Arsenal players are “babies”.
Lys Mousset’s first-half goal gave Sheffield United the lead on Monday night and, along with some stoic and organised defending, it proved enough for a famous triumph.
It was only Arsenal’s second loss of the season but their troubles on their travels continue – Unai Emery’s team have not won away in the league since the opening day – as the Gunners missed the chance to go third in the table.
And, after the match, Xhaka said he frustrated that there were still questions over the character of this Arsenal team.
“We have to stop talking about [the mental side of the game] and bulls*** like this,” the Arsenal captain said, when discussing the club’s performances away from home.
“I’m sorry to say that, but for me it’s the same whether you play at home or away – you have to win and show big character and not look for the same excuse.”
Xhaka was also asked about Evra’s comments that Arsenal players were “babies”.
“Sheffield United deserved the win, but I’m not surprised about Arsenal,” Evra said on Monday Night Football.
“I used to call them ‘my babies’ 10 years ago, and they are still, when I look at them and think they are ‘my babies’... that’s the truth – I’m not being disrespectful when I say that.”
Xhaka replied: “A lot of people speak too much.
“I have a lot of respect for him because he was a great player, but you have to be careful what you say.
“He knows what these situations well, but it’s not only him. A lot of people speak a lot of bulls*** and it’s always the same.”
