Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said his primary focus remains winning matches rather than attempting to outscore Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Arteta downplayed suggestions that goal difference could become the deciding factor in the battle for the league crown.
Manchester City strengthened their position on Wednesday after defeating Crystal Palace 3-0, a result that pushed their goal difference to +43, one ahead of Arsenal’s +42.
City are set to face Bournemouth and Aston Villa in their final two league fixtures, while Arsenal will take on Burnley and Crystal Palace.
Reacting to the situation, Arteta stressed that securing victories remains the priority for his team.
“First we have to earn the right to win the game. Obviously if you can make a difference with more goals, that’s even better.
“But we all play really tough matches. We had a really tough match against West Ham and managed to win it, and it was a great feeling.
“But we know ideally that scoring goals is going to be important,” Arteta said.
