Published: 29 December, 2011
by STEVE BARNETT

MIKEL Arteta has sent out a rallying cry to his Arsenal team-mates, insisting they need to be more ruthless at home if they want to break into the top four.

Arsene Wenger’s side went into Tuesday’s game against Wolves well aware that victory at the Emirates would leave them in the Champions League places for the first time this season.

But despite taking an early lead through Gervinho, the Gunners were held to a 1-1 draw by a resolute Wolves side.

Arteta praised Arsenal’s endeavour on the day, but knows that more will be needed in front of goal when QPR visit on New Year’s Eve.

“I don’t think you can ask much more than we put in to win the game,” he told Arsenal Player.

“Everyone tried really hard, it was one of those games. We had seven to 10 chances to win it but, as I said, it did not happen for us.

“Every side in the Premier League works hard but one goal is not enough. We have to be ruthless at home and keep more clean sheets to make sure we don’t drop points.

“We have to stand up now,” he went on. “This is a very important period. We did everything that we could to win the match. We have not done it so we have to improve for the next game against QPR.”

Reflecting on the dropped points Wenger admitted his side had been taught a lesson. “The lesson we learned is that when you look to completely control the game, if everybody is not focused then you can still be caught out,” he said.