Mikel Arteta deal good business, says Barry Horne

Arteta scored the winner in Saturday's 1-0 victory against Blackburn

Former Everton midfielder Barry Horne insists that Mikel Arteta's move to Arsenal represents good business, despite the fans' frustration.

After six and a half years at Goodison Arteta moved to Arsenal for £10m hours before the transfer window closed.

Horne told BBC Radio Merseyside: "It's a shame to lose a player of his quality at any time.

"But you have to say it's another good piece of business from David Moyes and Bill Kenwright."

Horne added: "They bought him for £2m and had fantastic service out of him."

Arteta moved to Everton from Real Sociedad, initially on loan before making the move permanent in the summer of 2005.

The serious knee injury he suffered in February 2009 at Newcastle meant he missed out on the FA Cup final.

"All Evertonians will wish him well, but I think he needed a new challenge," said the Goodison legend.

"He hasn't been at his commanding best for much of the last 18 months.

"I can understand the fans' passion and the fact that they don't want to see people leave the club - in particular absolute icons like Arteta.

"But look back at what happened when Wayne Rooney left the club for Manchester United [when they finished fourth]."