ARTETA GETS A TASTE FOR MAIN COURSE

MIKEL ARTETA struck a defiant tone despite Arsenal falling to arch rivals Tottenham in Hong Kong, the only defeat of their pre-season tour of Asia.

- from NICK CALLOW

The Gunners boss admitted the result left a "bad taste", but insisted the experience will prove valuable as his side ramps up preparations for the new Premier League season.

Arteta, who was pushed back into his technical area by Pedro Porro (inset) during a feisty encounter, said: "I'm very positive about everything I've seen in the last 10 days. It gives me a lot of encouragement.