Joe Cole says Mikel Arteta can criticise Arsenal duo for lack of concentration

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Joe Cole has told BT Sport that Mikel Arteta could criticise Arsenal defenders Rob Holding and William Saliba for a lack of concentration on Thursday in Norway – despite Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Bodo/Glimt, Bukayo Saka scoring the goal.

Saka, 21, continued his superb form for the Gunners this season as Arteta fielded a strong team. Ben White, Saliba, Kieran Tierney, Martin Odegaard, Saka and Gabriel Martinelli all started in Norway. Bodo/Glimt were the better side.

But it was Arsenal that took the lead, Saka driving into the box from the right flank. He had a shot which was saved by the goalkeeper, but the rebound hit Saka in the face – and bobbled into the net. His fourth goal of the season.

Arsenal had to ride their luck and rely on USA international Matt Turner between the sticks. But it was enough, making it three wins from three – 11 wins from 12 games in all competitions. But Saliba and Holding could have done better.

Indeed, Bodo/Glimt had numerous chances to score and missed a few sitters, with Arsenal very easy to get in behind. Cole believes the combination of Saliba and Holding might have been criticised by Arteta – if he is “nitpicking”.

“There were a couple of little holes, Arteta would be able to say ‘Come on guys, you need to concentrate’ because they could have cost them a couple of times. But you’re really nitpicking. The band keeps rolling on. Fantastic, so far.”

Cole: Arteta could criticise Arsenal defenders Holding and Saliba

Indeed, Holding came into the side – with Saliba retaining his place after a wonderful start to the campaign. It was the Frenchman’s first outing in the Europa League for Arsenal. With Gabriel playing in the first two games in Europe.

Cole is right, there were a few gaps and even if it was not Holding or Saliba’s fault directly, they are the players organising the defence. They should have got players back in with them, as Bodo/Glimt attacked on the counter.

But it is another win, as the Arsenal steamroller continues to plough on. Next up for the Gunners, is Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday – a game where the Yorkshire side will come at them 100mph. They will have to be ready.