Arsenal conceding too many simple goals, says Arteta

“We are conceding too many simple goals and we've talked about the importance of boxes and especially in a competition where you are in or out,” Arteta told reporters.

“We didn't defend well enough and we have to do better.”

Arteta said the team lacked their usual attacking threat owing to the absence of some key players, including striker Gabriel Jesus who is yet to reach full fitness after suffering a knee injury at the World Cup in early December.

“We had some positives because we showed a lot of resilience to get back in the game, but we need to defend our box much better and we have to be in the return leg to beat them,” Arteta added.

The second leg will be played at the Emirates on March 16.

Premier League leaders Arsenal, who have a five-point lead over second-placed Manchester City, will travel to Fulham for Sunday's league game.