Wenger - I did not even think about defeat

By desperado

Arsène Wenger did not allow himself to contemplate defeat ahead of Saturday’s crucial 2-1 over Manchester United.

The Arsenal manager endured a difficult press conference before the visit of the Premier League champions. But it was not only the media who were doubting Wenger after three games without a victory, bookmakers made his side outsiders to win a home game for only the third time in a decade.

Arsenal seemed to revel in their role as underdogs. samir nasri scored both goals as Wenger’s team got their title bid back on track. Ahead of the game the manager had refused to be fearful.

“I didn't imagine the consequences of a defeat,” said Wenger. “I felt before the game it was important not to think about that - just think that you want to win and deal with what happens after.

“I don't know why but I didn't. Part of the preparation is to go in with a winning attitude to build on.

“When you analyse the situation retrospectively a fear could come in and that could be dangerous. So we went in positively and after you deal with it. If you open the press or listen to the media you have the feeling that the world will stop if you lose, but it goes on the next morning.

“In our job, we can talk, talk, talk. At the end of the day it is what you produce on the football pitch. The answer was right on Saturday. When you don't do that you get criticised. You have to deal with that and show you can take it.”