'The fight' - Mikel Arteta names key Everton qualities after points deduction

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta expects Everton to display their fighting spirit after being docked 10 points.

The Blues find themselves in the relegation zone following the harshest punishment that has ever been handed out in the English top flight. Sean Dyche’s side are now two points from safety, having previously begun to pull away from the teams at the bottom of the table after a strong run of form.

However, Arteta is confident that the Toffees will be able to battle their way out of relegation trouble. The Gunners boss spent more than six seasons at Goodison Park during his playing days, starring under then-manager David Moyes, and shared his affection for the Blues when asked about Everton’s current situation.

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“I feel very connected to the club,” Arteta said in his press conference. “It's a very difficult moment and obviously puts the club in a difficult position but they have been in many other positions and always find a way to get out.

“If there is a quality that describes that club it is the courage, determination and the fight. They will fight against anything and I wish them the best.”

Asked if the punishment handed out to Everton represented a ‘watershed moment’ for future cases involving the Premier League, Arteta replied: “I don't know but the news took me by surprise - and it is a big one in the middle of the season. I don't know the regulations or the whole story inside it so it is difficult for me to comment.”

Meanwhile, Everton will hope to begin reclaiming the 10 points lost, when Sean Dyche’s side host Manchester United on Sunday.