Mikel Arteta praises 'magnificent' Chelsea man ahead of derby

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca ahead of the Premier League derby at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are winless in the last three league games, but they should be slight favourites going into Sunday's London derby against the Blues.

Ahead of the encounter, Arteta spoke fondly about Maresca. He said that the Italian is a magnificent coach, who is very clear with what he wants to do.

He said: "He's a magnificent coach. He's very clear what he wants to do, he's been very clear what he wants and how he does it. I really like the way his team plays."

Chelsea have not beaten the Gunners in the last six meetings in the Premier League. They will be aiming to end the streak at the Emirates tomorrow.

Arsenal are presently 15 points behind leaders Liverpool but have the opportunity to reduce the deficit in their game in hand against the Blues.

Meanwhile, Chelsea can go four points clear of fifth-placed Manchester City with a win. They can strengthen their Champions League bid.