Arteta: Arsenal still in strong position

Gunners drop points at home to Liverpool

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Players from both teams react as Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate, left, clashes with Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli, right.

(REUTERS)

said the Gunners have come out of a gruelling festive schedule in a stronger position despite the disappointment of being held 0-0 at home to Liverpool on Thursday.

Arteta's men dropped points for the first time since Dec 6 as five consecutive Premier League wins prior to Liverpool's visit and the faltering form of Manchester City has opened up a six-point lead for Arsenal.

"Yes, every time you don't win [it is a missed opportunity)," said Arteta. "I have to really praise the team for what they have done in this Christmas period.

"To come out of this period with all the issues we had the boys deserve all the credit.

"We are in a really strong position and we have to go again."

Defending champions Liverpool remain 14 points behind the leaders but have not conceded a goal in two meetings with Arsenal this season.