Tony Pulis: 'I know Mikel Arteta sees comparisons to Stoke as a compliment'

In his new BBC column 'Going Direct', the former Stoke City manager homed in on the rise of set-pieces in the modern game and how more teams, primarily Premier League table toppers Arsenal, are using this as their secret weapon

Tony Pulis has praised Mikel Arteta for blocking out to noise

Tony Pulis has heaped praise upon Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for refusing to succumb to the criticism from opposition coaches and fans when it comes to his team's knack for scoring goals from set pieces. 

Pulis likened this backlash to his tenure with Stoke City where the team were known for their direct style of play and similar aptitude for set piece goals.