Pepe defends Ljungberg following Arsenal's 3-0 defeat to Manchester City; Gunners have won just once in 12 matches in all competitions
Monday 16 December 2019 16:25, UK
Nicolas Pepe says Arsenal's players must shoulder the criticism for their recent performances, rather than interim head coach Freddie Ljungberg.
Two goals from Kevin De Bruyne and a Raheem Sterling strike condemned Ljungberg's side to their fifth top-flight defeat of the season on Sunday.
Arsenal's club's record signing Pepe, who played the full match at the Emirates Stadium, insists the blame for the Gunners' adverse form should lie with him and his team-mates, instead of their temporary boss.
"Us players have to do better quickly," said Pepe.
"We have won only one game out of the last 12. It is not enough, we are Arsenal. It is about us, not the coach or anything else.
"We have to wake up quickly, starting against Everton.
"Freddie tries hard, he talks to us, but nothing has changed much in terms of results. It's down to us the players, not the coach. Freddie is close to us because he used to be a player not long ago.
"He knows what we feel so it's easier for us to talk with him. We will continue to work hard to make things better and win again.
"We are not disturbed by the managerial situation. I had a similar situation in Lille and we kept going. With hard work, it will get better with Freddie or someone else."
Following Arsenal's third consecutive home defeat in all competitions, Ljungberg suggested that the club should make a decision imminently over the vacant manager's position at the club.
Ljungberg has overseen one win, two defeats and two draws since taking temporary charge.
Talks have begun with former midfielder and current Manchester City assistant boss Mikel Arteta over becoming Unai Emery's replacement.
