Arteta repels Cesc comparisons

Arsenal signing Mikel Arteta says he should not be looked at as a direct replacement for the departed Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri.

The Spaniard ended his tenure at Everton in a deal reported to be worth around 10 million pounds after a frenzied final day of the transfer period last week.

Arteta cautioned it will take time for Arsenal’s new signings to adapt in north London, but the former Rangers man is hopeful of making a significant impact at the club.

“They (Fabregas and Nasri) were two top players for the club, they did really, really well in the last few years and now we have some new players coming in to try and make the same impact. I am sure we will,” the 29-year-old said.

“I don’t want the fans to be expecting the same as them because every player is different.”

“We need some time to adapt as well, but I am sure that we will give everything we can to make this team better.”

Arteta is set to make his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt this weekend when the Gunners host Swansea City.