Arteta thrilled to see Everton flying high under Martínez

Mikel Arteta has revealed his delight at seeing his former club Everton impress in the Premier League this season.

Arteta was part of the Arsenal side that were held to a 1-1 draw by the Toffees at Emirates Stadium on Sunday as the Gunners were pegged back by Gerard Deulofeu’s late equaliser in north London.

The 31-year-old Spaniard spent six seasons at Goodison Park before moving to Arsenal back in the summer of 2011.

And the midfielder admits he is thrilled to see his former employers, who are fifth in the table after having only lost one league game so far, thriving under new boss Roberto Martínez this season.

“They [Everton] have been playing really well and they have always trying to produce a good mix of players with quality, intensity and speed,” said Arteta.

“They are hard to deal with and they made it really hard for us.

“I’m really happy for them. I think they are doing tremendously well with a young manager who has bought a new style. I always want the best for them but obviously when I play against them I want to win.”