Mikel Arteta explains how Arsenal's summer signings Kai Havertz and Declan Rice have 'raised the level' as Premier League title bid continues to intensify

The Gunners went four points clear at the top of the Premier League thanks to goals from Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Rice in a 3-0 win against Bournemouth on Saturday. After the match, manager Arteta said his summer recruits, particularly £65 million ($82m) Chelsea recruit Havertz and £105m ($137m) West Ham signing Rice, have had a big impact on the team in many ways.

He told reporters after the match: “If we spend money we’d better do it wisely and in the most effective way. We’re really happy with the recruitment that we had. It had a big impact in the team, it has raised not only the level of the team but the level of the rest of the players as well. You see today (Saturday) we had some big performances from a lot of individuals. If we want to be at that stage you need that.”

On Havertz, he added: “He was unbelievable today, honestly. Everything he did: the timings, the movements, how he keeps the ball, the way he goes to the press, how he links play, his understanding of the game. He was unbelievable today.”

Arsenal have, arguably, improved from last season but they will still need other teams to do them a favour and pick up points against defending champions and second-placed Manchester City in the run-in.

Arsenal, who have two matches of the season remaining whereas City have a game in hand, are away to Manchester United at Old Trafford next Sunday before rounding off their campaign at home to Everton on May 19.