Wenger says Gunners must not hide in ‘moment of truth’
The Gunners head to Fulham tonight at the start of a run of matches which will shape their season, both in the Barclays Premiership and Champions League.
Following the defeat at Bolton, Wenger’s team — currently sixth — are now 13 points off the pace, albeit with a game in hand and there is little further margin for error.
The first north London derby against Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium takes place on Saturday, before Arsenal head to Porto for a crunch European tie, where a draw would see them through to the knock-out stages.
Then, of course, there is the small matter of a trip to Chelsea on December 10.
Wenger said: “The period that comes up now for us is the moment of truth.
“We must not hide. There is a big obstacle in front of the players. I feel they are ready to jump it – and they have a fantastic leap.
“If they are not, we have no chance to do it. They will try, but I am confident.”
The Frenchman will have captain Thierry Henry available again following a neck injury.
Wenger maintained: “I want these players to perform and this team to perform at their full potential.
“I think it is in there and it is down to me and to them to get it out.
“You must wait until the end of the season before you judge us.”
The Achilles heel for Arsenal this season has been their home form at the new 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium, with four draws from seven Premiership matches.
“We moved to a new stadium, and that was a bit of a problem,” said Wenger. “Overall I feel the team has improved quality-wise, but just cannot transform that into results at the moment, however, it will come.”
Arsenal are the team Chris Coleman would pay to see, but the Fulham boss dreads having to watch them from the Cottagers’ dugout.
With victories over Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool in the bank, Arsenal remain the only club out of the Premiership’s big four Coleman has yet to beat.
While he is an unashamed admirer of their cavalier style, he admits it makes for nightmare viewing as an opposition manager.
“Arsenal and Manchester United play the best football. They’re not happy with one goal, they want to win by three,” said Coleman, whose side was thrashed 4-0 in the same fixture last term.
“Man United attack very aggressively, while Arsenal are more fluent. Arsenal play the best passing game. Pound for pound, they’re the best passing team and are brilliant in tight situations.
“I’d prefer to watch Arsenal play to any other team, although it’s only enjoyable when you see them against someone else. It’s not enjoyable when you’re sat on the touchline.
“You can see your team are doing their best, but sometimes you have to give credit to the opposition when they’re that good,” said Coleman.
“Arsenal still have chances, so no matter how well you play against them, you have to have a bit of luck if you’re to get any kind of result.
“They’re a great team and what you have to have is a bit of luck on the day.”
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