Wenger calls for 'champion' performance
Arsene Wenger called on Arsenal to prove they are “big champions” by refusing to hand over their Barclays Premiership title without a determined struggle in tonight’s clash at Chelsea.
Jose Mourinho’s side hold a commanding 11-point lead and victory at Stamford Bridge, followed by another success against Fulham on Saturday, would clinch their first title in 50 years.
Arsenal are still without Thierry Henry due to a groin injury, while Freddie Ljungberg is missing with a hip problem.
However, while Sol Campbell is also doubtful despite returning to the squad after his ankle injury, Wenger is refusing to concede defeat in the title race just yet.
After all, he believes Arsenal must not only play for pride at Stamford Bridge but also try to keep the pressure on Mourinho’s side.
“Our pride is to win the game and to fight for the championship as long as we can,” he declared.
“What makes a difference between the big champion and a normal person is that, as long as there is a chance, a big champion fights.
“It is important not only not to lose, but to win. As long as there is mathematically a chance, you have to go for it. It is always important to be strong in the big games.”
Wenger insisted he has not been surprised by Chelsea’s emergence as title contenders, even after the Gunners’ unbeaten league campaign last season.
“Remember they were already a good side last year and were competing for the title,” he argued.
“They were second and were in the semi-finals of the Champions League. Since then, they have bought 11 players so I expected them to be where they are.
“Their injuries have less impact. We have played this year with very young players but they are now getting better and better.
“Are Chelsea better than Arsenal? That is what we will see. But I feel that, when we are fit, we can compete with anyone.”
Wenger is also confident that Ashley Cole will not be affected by the continued speculation over his future in tonight’s game.
The Premier League hearing into his alleged tapping-up by Chelsea has now been delayed until just before the FA Cup final next month.
However, Wenger insisted he is still “100% certain” that Cole will sign a new deal at Highbury and stay next season.
He added: “I have spoken to Ashley over the weekend but I am not really concerned as I know he is a winner, a fighter and a strong man.
“When he is on the pitch, the most important thing for him is to win the game - no matter where it is or who he is playing for. I believe he has enough experience to deal with the situation.
“I hope it does not have any interference between the two sets of fans as the most important thing is that the game is fair and both teams focus on playing well so their fans can be proud of them.”
