Michael Owen aims dig at Brighton boss and defends Mikel Arteta

"He might change his mind if he's going for a title. Then any old win will do. Listen, Arsenal have played well for the vast majority of the season and it's the oldest saying in the football book, sometimes you've got to win playing ugly. Arsenal have done that as well this season and fair play to them. They find a way of winning."

"That starts in Arsenal's case with having a very strong defence, a very good goalkeeper and a very organised defence, a solid midfield. They aren't what Liverpool have been, aren't what Manchester City have been over the last decade or so. Basically blitzing teams scoring loads of goals but also conceding a few as well so they're not that style of play. They are well drilled."

Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory against Brighton through Bukayo Saka's early goal and defensive solidity, extending their league lead to seven points after Manchester City drew with Nottingham Forest. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler criticized Arsenal's playing style, claiming he would never adopt such defensive tactics. Michael Owen countered this criticism, arguing that winning aesthetically unpleasing matches is essential during title races. Owen acknowledged Arsenal may not play attractive football but emphasized their effectiveness through strong defense, organized structure, and solid midfield play. He suggested Hurzeler might reconsider his principles if facing a genuine title challenge, noting that pragmatic victories matter more than stylistic preferences in competitive seasons.

Read at Metro