‘They have come from hell… they will fight’

Arsene Wenger knows just how tough Huddersfield will be on Wednesday night - because they fought their way “out from hell” in the Championship.

The Premier League new boys have made a strong start to life in the top flight, and were only beaten by leaders Manchester City on Sunday after conceding a late goal.

Now they visit Emirates Stadium - where we have won 11 league games in a row - and the Arsenal manager had this to say in his press conference:

on how tough Huddersfield will be…

It’s a massive game for me because I watched their game against City, they didn’t deserve to lose. This team has come out from hell, you have to play 46 games in the Championship to get out of it, and you need to be ready for a fight. With all the teams that come up, you realise that especially in the first season they have that kind of fighting spirit that makes them dangerous for every Premier League side, no matter what kind of names you have on the teamsheet.

on winning 11 PL home games in a row - best run since 2005…

We have been a bit more patient, better defensively as well, more secure defensively and could make the differences many times in the second half. Then you build the belief and the strength that comes from the history of the team at home as well. We feel that we can turn it around, no matter what happens. Certainly, the home support makes a difference as well.

on whether the Emirates is becoming a fortress like Highbury…

That’s the target. It’s too early to say that because I don’t think the period is long enough to assess.

on whether his team selection will be influenced by the game v Man United…

[I will have] zero eyes [on the Manchester United game]. The most important game is tomorrow night, no matter what happens after. We have a good chance to take three points at home tomorrow and that is the only thing that matters. I have a big enough squad to deal with the rest after this game.