Arteta impressed in Sunday’s 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough.
Moyes told evertonfc.com: “Mikel is an important player for us, everyone knows that.
“You heard the cheer his name got when it was announced because everybody appreciates what he does for the team.
“We don’t hide behind excuses but when you lose your better players it can have an effect on the side.”
“You could see the players were happy to give Mikel the ball because he can make things happen,” continued Moyes.
“I have complained to the players about us not making enough chances and having the courage to go and win the games.
“We made chances and we did have opportunities. We were a bit more exciting than we have been in recent weeks.”
