Wenger keeps the faith with youths

ARSENE WENGER insisted it would be “criminal” to drop the youngsters who have beaten Everton and Manchester City in the Carling Cup as he looked for them to emulate last season’s run to the semi-finals.

Edu was the only proven first-team figure in a virtual U21 side, with Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, 18, and Arturo Lupoli, 17, starring along with Jermaine Pennant and Robin van Persie.

Wenger will revert to his first team in this weekend’s North London derby against Spurs, he will again place his faith in his youngsters for the next round of the Carling Cup.