Arsene Wenger addressed the media after his side beat Aston Villa 3-0 on Saturday afternoon. Read a transcript go what he had to say:
on the win…
It was the response we needed after Tuesday. Aston Villa started quite well and they had one or two dangerous situations, but after that we were in control and we scored three goals in three minutes. Then in the second half it was a possession game, a controlled game, because they didn’t come out too much. Overall it’s still a convincing win where [Danny] Welbeck scored, [Mesut] Ozil scored, and that’s important as well.
on whether he’s tempted to stick with today’s system…
I adapted a bit game by game. There is a little difference but not a major one. Ozil played today behind their midfield because I thought they made it very tight. But it’s important for us to find Ozil between the lines and move the game forward. It worked, but he can play everywhere. I believe that the team played well and after it’s easier for everybody.
on Welbeck's goal…
He scored a similar goal to the one he scored in Switzerland. A cross from the left and he pushed it in - the timing of his run is good. I think he had a very good performance today because he kept the ball. Ball retention is important and he had a good all-round game for a central striker.
on Ozil's performance...
I was very pleased he got the goal as quickly as possible. It’s not your [the media's] fault, I didn’t say that it was your fault, I just said knowing you the media how well you find out what we miss. It was important for him to score.
on being surprised at Villa's attacking performance...
Yes. I don’t know why, you should ask [Paul Lambert].
on Alexis Sanchez…
Sanchez was rested today and of course he was completely available.
on whether he considered not playing Ozil today…
No, not really, no. You consider it always, I have many offensive players and you always look to find the right balance and it’s not always easy because I gave Sanchez a rest as he played many games. We have plenty of experienced players who are not playing at the moment and are top quality. But I felt as well that it was at the point where you have to show him that confidence is there. He showed as well that he can respond when he’s under scrutiny.
on whether leaving Ozil out would’ve dented his confidence…
It’s always a very sensitive point. You never know really how people respond to that.
on where Ozil prefers to play…
In the middle. But I can find you 10 more players in my squad who want to play in the middle.
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