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Aitor Karanka says Middlesbrough deserved to beat Arsenal

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Aitor Karanka shares his thoughts on Boro's 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium

Aitor Karanka believes Middlesbrough deserved all three points against Arsenal following their 0-0 draw at the Emirates.

Boro had plenty of chances in north London against the Gunners, who had won their last eight games in all competitions going into the game, and were unlucky not to come away with the win.

Karanka's side had been struggling ahead of the clash, and are still without a win since August 21, but the Spaniard says he is proud of his players' performance.

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 22:  Petr Cech of Arsenal (R) saves Gaston Ramirez of Middlesbrough (L) header  during the Premier League match between Arsenal a
Image: Gaston Ramirez went closest for Middlesbrough

He told Sky Sports: "I think we should have won the game, but after games like today I don't have anything to say other than how proud I am of my players.

"After defeat by Watford, the week has been tough for us, but we've shown to everybody that when we compete, when we are strong and organised, we can compete against any team.

"I said always, and the players know, we have a plan, and we had the same plan last season. The critics will arrive, it's normal if a team is not winning. We have a clear plan as a club and a team and staff.

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Arsene Wenger says his Arsenal side were 'a bit jaded' during the game

"We knew it was going to be difficult to keep the ball, but we tried, we were organised when they had possession, but we had a few chances. The main thing for us is that everybody can see we are a team who can compete in the Premier League."

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Middlesbrough have now drawn four of their nine Premier League games, and sit just outside the relegation zone with seven points.

Karanka singled out the performance of Adama Traore at the Emirates, and also praised the fans for sticking by the side during a tough start to their return to the Premier League.

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Highlights: Arsenal 0-0 Middlesbrough

"He is a really good player, I knew that he needs to learn tactically because he is young. Now he is improving tactically, and his skill maybe people didn't know, but after today they do.

"They know for us that every single point for us is important, every single performance is important, and as I said last season and this season, always the only way to be successful is to fight together [with the fans].

"We are really proud of [the fans], especially in this season when we're not in the best condition at home. To come here to the Emirates again and see this performance, they will be proud of this team."

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