Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has praised Mikel Arteta's Arsenal side.

The Gunners looked to have gotten over their early season struggles, but have experienced a few indifferent results in recent matches to dent their progress.

As Arteta searches for a winning formula, particularly away from home, Hasenhuttl offered him words of encouragement.

The two teams go head to head in the Premier League at the weekend.

Hasenhuttl said: "After a difficult start they have had a good turnaround and stabilised the squad.

"Their last two defeats are against good sides, Everton and Man United.

"They have a very good side and have found their shape and their team I think it took a while but it seems they are settled.

"This is a tough challenge for us, at home they are strong.

"We need to have a good performance and have shown this against the top teams this season also so we can go there with self-confidence."