Arsenal boss Arteta hails 'really strong performance' against Sheffield United.

Arsenal beat Sheffield United 3-0, thanks to a Lacazette brace and a goal from Gabriel Martinelli. [Getty]

FT: Sheffield United 0-3 Arsenal.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was happy with his side's showing against Sheffield United on Sunday, adding that the match was an 'ideal preparation for Thursday'.

The Spaniard was also pleased his Gunners kept a clean sheet against the Blades.

French striker Alexandre Lacazette's brace and a goal from Gabriel Martinelli handed the north London club a 3-0 win at Bramall Lane.

Arsenal will now channel their attention to Thursday's Europa League quarter-final second-leg against Slavia Prague which is currently 1-1 on aggregate.

Arteta to BT Sport: "I am really happy with the way we played, we scored some really nice goals and controlled the game the way we wanted. We played at a high level. From the start I felt the boys were at it, we were efficient.

"We had good distances to play with each other and they understood the space.

"It's the first time Granit Xhaka has started at left-back, it's a possibility for him. He has the qualities to play there. Bukayo Saka, the last thing we need is another injury but he felt something in his thigh.

"Gabriel Martinelli twisted his ankle but he's a tough boy. Against Prague, Lacazette missed two big chances and he needed those goals. He has been playing well.

"This is ideal preparation for Thursday. It has been a long run without a clean sheet."

Lacazette added: "It was important we won and it was a great day for us.

"I missed an easy chance on Thursday and so I wanted to score.

"The confidence was lacking a little bit. We know we have the quality but sometimes we miss a little bit at both ends of the pitch."

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