Wenger pays tribute to ‘exceptional’ players

Arsene Wenger last night paid tribute to the character and spirit shown by his Arsenal players as they continued the remarkable sequence of consecutive Champions League appearances.

Arsenal embark on a 16th successive campaign in European football’s premier competition when they take their place in the qualifying round in August, courtesy of victory at Newcastle sealed by the only goal of the contest, scored by Laurent Koscielny early in the second half.

The Gunners trailed Tottenham by seven points after defeat in the North London derby in March, but edged out their neighbours on the final day thanks to a stunning run of eight victories in their final 10 league games, all unbeaten.