Mikel Arteta can't hide true feelings on Oleksander Zinchenko after Arsenal mistake

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the error made by Oleksandr Zinchenko in the closing stages of Saturday's 2-1 win over Wolves during his post-match press conference

Mikel Arteta refused to condemn Oleksandr Zinchenko after the Arsenal full-back's mistake set up a nervy finale in Saturday's 2-1 win over Wolves at The Emirates.

The Gunners flew out of the blocks to take a two-nil lead inside 13 minutes courtesy of well-worked goals from Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard and were unfortunate not to extend their lead before a late defensive lapse allowed Matheus Cunha to halve the visitors' deficit in the 86th minute.

It was Zinchenko was at fault for the goal, with the former Manchester City player caught out after overplaying in a dangerous area. And while Arteta stressed Arsenal had to learn lessons from that error, he was quick to defend the versatile Ukraine international.

"You have to love him, how he is," the Spaniard replied when he was asked about Zinchenko's error post-match. "Every player has strengths and weaknesses. Alex has many more strengths.

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"This happened and it can happen to any player. We have to learn from it because there are certain areas where it’s a big no to play, especially after certain things in the previous phase. That’s it. We will get better."

Despite a nervy finale, Arsenal were in control throughout the match and have now opened a four-point lead at the Premier League summit. Manchester City will have the chance to respond on Sunday when they host the Gunners' bitter rivals, Tottenham.

Although disappointed to give up a clean sheet, Arteta commended the character of his team for the manner in which they dug in during the final minutes of the match. He was also quick to point out that the scoreline slightly flattered Wolves, who were second-best for the majority of the afternoon despite Cunha's late strike.