Mikel Arteta backs Noni Madueke to shine as Arsenal boss warns fringe players over excuses

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed Noni Madueke to reach another level in the coming weeks while warning his fringe players that limited game time is no excuse for poor performances.

With Arsenal entering a demanding period across the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups, Arteta wants every member of his squad ready to contribute.

The Spaniard's comments follow Tuesday's Champions League match against Lille, when several players were given opportunities to impress.

Mikel Merino and Viktor Gyokeres were among those handed rare starts against Lille but struggled to make the desired impact.

Asked whether a lack of regular minutes could explain their performances, Arteta dismissed the suggestion.

"They need to train more then," he said.

"What I don't want is an excuse. 'No but when I play I lack rhythm'. Yeah? So what do we do then? We send you on holidays?"

Arteta insisted players must maintain their standards regardless of whether they are starting regularly.

"I hate excuses. We know the role. We know that the competitiveness that we need in the team is at the maximum level," he added.

The Arsenal boss believes squad depth will be essential as the fixture schedule becomes increasingly congested.

Madueke has started both matches since the international break after previously making just one start this season, in the Carabao Cup.

The winger featured on the left against Leeds United as Arsenal searched for alternatives following Christos Tzolis's absence.

Although Madueke is more commonly deployed on the right, Arteta believes his versatility provides an important tactical option.

"I think he can play in both positions. He offers something completely different," Arteta explained.

"It's great because he is comfortable there, he is enjoying playing there, and he is doing well. It's a good solution."

The manager also predicted further progress from the former Chelsea winger.

"He will have more minutes in the next few games. I am sure that we will start to see a closer version of Noni at the highest level."

Arsenal's busy schedule should provide further opportunities for players competing for regular starting places.

Madueke will hope to establish himself on the left flank, while Arteta expects his entire squad to maintain the standards required to compete across multiple competitions.