adminLONDON. – Chelsea’s consistency is a sign to Arsenal of how to win the English Premier League, believes Per Mertesacker. The Blues are preparing to face Mertesacker’s side in the Community Shield at Wembley tomorrow in the opening clash of the new domestic season. Arsenal successfully defended their FA Cup crown last term but came short of challenging Chelsea for the championship.
And Mertesacker (30) says lessons must be learned heading into the new campaign if the Gunners are to clinch the title for the first time in 12 years.
“When we’ve headed to Wembley in the past, it’s generally either been for a semi-final or a final,” he told arsenal.com.
“There’s always been that special tension and we could always handle that pressure.
“Even at 2-0 down, we always managed to deal with different situations.
“We haven’t played Chelsea at Wembley in such a situation for a long time.
“They played really well last season, they were really consistent and always defended well from the front.
“I think if we can learn something from Chelsea, it’s to be consistent over the whole season.
“You need to be consistent, especially in the league. In the cup, you can win it with six straight victories, which we managed to do twice.
“The hunger is still there to win a cup and to stay cup winners. The consistency over the whole season is vital. It’s what everyone wants, the players and the fans.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has claimed Jack Wilshere can fulfil his potential if he steers clear of injuries.
The England ace has already gone under the knife twice to correct ankle problems.
And an injury picked up against Manchester United in November limited him to just 30 appearances for club and country last season.
But Wenger has backed his influential midfielder to bounce back to his best. – AFP.
Online Reporter