Arsene Wenger praised Mesut Ozil and Petr Cech’s “consistency and charisma” after Arsenal’s 2-0 win against Bournemouth.
The Germany international assisted Gabriel’s opener before scoring the second to secure three points at the end of a dominant performance at Emirates Stadium on Monday.
Cech also impressed, breaking the Premier League clean-sheet record with the 170th shut-out of a glittering career in England, and Wenger is delighted with the duo’s contribution this season.
“Mesut [grabbed the game by the scruff of its neck] in a convincing way,” the manager told Arsenal Player. “I’m sure you are not surprised having seen all of our games. We know how much of an important player he has become for our team, especially now we are missing a few players.
“Chambers was new in midfield so it was important to have somebody who reassures the team, somebody who can give the ball and calm things down to give you security in the transition. He did that extremely well.
“[Cech’s clean-sheet record] is an incredible achievement and it just proves what an exceptional goalkeeper he is. You speak about Ozil and you speak about Cech, and they are always very strong bases in the team to have consistency.
“These players are not only quality in their stature, they give a charisma to the team which is important, a quality of behaviour and attitude. A consistency like that for a goalkeeper, people can ignore how much commitment it demands from him every day.
“I am very happy because we have done very well in 2015,” he added. “It’s a bit bizarre because Southampton last year was a turning point for us and this year I hope it will be one again. That means we can go even higher after another big defeat at Southampton.
“Let’s wish that for 2016, wish all our fans a happy New Year and just try to give them even more in 2016.”
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