WE'RE GUNNING FOR YOU

Arteta's ruthless stars send powerful message to title rivals as they demolish sorry Blades

- JOHN CROSS

IT was such a mismatch that you could not help but feel sorry for Sheffield United.

Arsenal were ruthless, brilliant and in the mood to break records with another free-scoring victory - their seventh straight Premier League win to send out a powerful statement in the title race.

But Blades boss Chris Wilder stood on the touchline looking horribly embarrassed as home fans had left in their thousands even before half-time.

Arsenal became the first English league side to win three consecutive away games by a margin of five or more goals. West Ham, Burnley and now Sheffield United, your boys have taken one hell of a beating.

Meanwhile, the Blades have now shipped five or more goals in their last four home games.

This was a shameful night for United and one which must leave Wilder (right) wondering why on earth he chose to return to Bramall Lane.

The Blades were shockingly bad and were left humiliated. Even more worryingly, the players had thrown in the towel.

They know they are going down and are resigned to their fate already. That is unacceptable and you have to wonder whether Wilder will quit before he gets sacked.