Arteta: Hungry to defend Premier League title vs Coventry

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says he is more motivated than ever as the club prepares to begin its Premier League title defence against Coventry City on Friday night.

"I feel good, different, hopefully better. More excited than ever. Hungrier than ever. I can't wait to start the Premier League at home in front of our supporters, have a great performance and win the match," Arteta said ahead of the opener.

The Spaniard added that he has no doubts about his squad's ambition to retain the title, but stressed the work required. "What we need to show is that desire and ambition will be better than what we were last season, a month ago or a week ago when we played Manchester City. We have the ability to improve, to evolve and that's what I sense and I feel around the club and especially around the players."

In the opposite dugout will be Frank Lampard, who has guided Coventry back to the top flight for the first time since 2001. Arteta was generous in his assessment of both the club and his managerial counterpart.

"What they've done as a club is remarkable; what Frank has done is incredible. After so many years without being in the Premier League, they have earned the right to do that and they have earned it in a really special way," Arteta said.

Arteta and Lampard faced each other as players and later as managers of Arsenal and Chelsea. The Arsenal boss also recalled Lampard's qualities on the pitch. "He was one of my favourite midfielders by far, what he could produce, he could do absolutely everything in the midfield, he was a top, top class player."

Arteta said Arsenal are prepared for what Coventry will bring on Friday. "I'm sure they will show the ambition on Friday night. We are ready because we know what to expect."