Wenger admits relief at qualification
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted his relief after the side went through to the Champions League group stages beating Udinese 3-1 over two legs.
The pressure has been building at the Emirates, especially after defeat to Liverpool and the departures of Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas however Wenger felt his side responded in the best way possible.
When asked by the official Arsenal website whether he felt any relief at qualification Wenger responded:
“Yes, of course, because it was a massive game for us. I heard it enough yesterday in the press conferences to be convinced of it. We responded in a very positive way, even after being down 1-0.”
The Arsenal manager added.
“We had a fantastic second half and created chance after chance. I am very happy because we kept our composure when we were down 1-0. We kept dominating and playing the football we want to play.”
“I feel, of course, it will because we have been a little bit under pressure. For us not to play in the Champions League and with the players who have left, that pressure would have increased, understandably.”
“Since the beginning of the season I feel a very strong, determined attitude within the team. We did not win at Newcastle but we played with 10 men. We did lose at Liverpool with 10 men but I am convinced that we would not have lost against Liverpool with 11. Overall, there is a strong attitude and spirit inside the team. ”
