Mikel Arteta will keep trying with out of form Willian

Mikel Arteta defends struggling Brazilian winger Willian.

The former Chelsea star has scored zero goals and made one assist in his last 17 appearances for the Gunners.

He is yet to find his feet since moving to Emirates on a free transfer from Chelsea in the summer window.

Arsenal fans have questioned Arteta’s insistence on playing Willian in every other game.

He was underwhelming again in Arsenal’s 2-0 win against Newcastle in the FA Cup 3rd round.

‘I think he was improving and improving,’ Mikel Arteta said.

‘The other day he came on really well against West Brom. He’s been out as well because he was ill.

‘He missed two weeks of training and football. Today was the first time he has started a game.

‘He had some good moments and other moments where he needed more help and some decisions weren’t the best.

‘We’re going to keep trying with him. He’s showing in training how much he wants it, he’s got some highlights in the game and it’s about keeping the confidence in him. We know the player that he is and it’s about [giving him] time to show it.’

See More: Top 10 Worst Arsenal Signings: Players Signed 2021!