Per Mertesacker praised Arsenal's patience and composure following the 2-0 win over Hull City in the third round of the FA Cup.
The German defender scored his first goal of the season to put Arsenal in front on 20 minutes before Alexis Sanchez secured the victory late on.
"The second goal was a big relief for the players and he's a massive threat to any team"
Arsenal dominated the Tigers for lengthy spells and Mertesacker thinks the tie should have been sealed before half-time.
"We have good memories when I think about Wembley and then today," Mertesacker said. "It was a tough fight until the end but we deserved it.
"In the first half it could have been three or four-nil. Then Alexis scored and we were relieved.
"The second goal was a big relief for the players and he's a massive threat to any team. We're delighted with his performances and we need to keep him fit.
"We were composed and deserved it. I'm proud of our team because no matter who's playing we stick together."
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