Mikel Arteta looked ahead to the challenge coming for Arsenal against Everton.

After a 3-0 loss to Brighton, the Gunners had to dig deep to earn victories against Leeds United (2-1) and Nottingham Forest (0-1) in the Premier League. The most recent win was a notable example of the struggles that exist for top teams against low blocks, and a similar test could await this weekend.

Everton's durable start

The Toffees avoided defeat in their first six Premier League fixtures before a 2-0 loss to Chelsea at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on the previous matchday.

Their disciplined defending and pragmatism epitomise the durability of manager David Moyes, who retains the respect of his former player.

‘I think we all look up to him’

“Every team is going to prepare in the best way with how they think they can beat us, like we do with the opponent. You could have an open chance in the first 10 minutes that changes the game and then the next 80 minutes are different because of the context of the game, results have a huge impact on how teams behave. We need to be able to win and enjoy as much as possible in every context.

“I know David so well, the way he sets the team. The quality they have in their organisation and individually, and it’s no coincidence they didn’t lose before their last game. They have a really good team, which we know because in recent clashes, it’s always been a really difficult game for us.

“I don’t know if it’s the king or what it is, but he’s certainly someone that I think we all look up to him.

“Not only for his longevity, I think what he represents for the game, what he represents for the Premier League, and his trajectory, and me especially because I know the man behind the coach, which is the most important thing, and then I really know as well the coach, and he’s a superb coach.”