Wenger holding out for a miracle

Arsene Wenger called on his Arsenal team to believe they can rewrite the record books and overturn AC Milan’s 4-0 lead to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League tonight.

The Gunners boss was left crestfallen in the San Siro a fortnight ago, having witnessed his side taken apart by the Rossoneri, as a stunning opener from former Tottenham midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng was followed by a brace by ex-Manchester City striker Robinho, before a late penalty by Zlatan Ibrahimovic effectively ended the tie as a contest.

After what he described as a “shocking performance”, Wenger felt little genuine hope of progress. However, after two morale-boosting victories, over Tottenham and then Liverpool, to breathe new life into their Barclays Premier League campaign, the Arsenal manager will take only positive thoughts into tonight’s European showdown.