Saha (r) has been in fine form for Everton since the turn of the year

Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta says striker Louis Saha will be a pivotal figure with the Blues looking to climb the Premier League table.

Saha has scored four goals in his last five games in all competitions.

"Louis is a world class player and when he's in form he is as good as anyone else," said Arteta.

"If he can score for us, he'll make a big difference in games. Blackpool on Saturday is a massive game for us, so it's important we get the first goal."

David Moyes' side go into their meeting with the Tangerines on the back of Tuesday's 2-1 defeat by Arsenal and currently sit four points above the relegation zone.

On Tuesday it was up to us and we didn't defend well enough on those two occasions and it cost us the game Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta on the 2-1 defeat by Arsenal

Arteta was disappointed with Everton's defending in the defeat at the Emirates, after Saha had given the Blues a controversial lead.

"I think against Arsenal it was our mistakes that cost us," added the 28-year-old Spaniard. "I don't think it was because of Arsenal being unbelievable.

"We've played them at the Emirates and at home and sometimes I think they were the better side.

"On Tuesday it was up to us and we didn't defend well enough on those two occasions and it cost us the game."

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