Wenger hails Arsenal ‘character’, confirms Elneny

Matt Stead

Arsene Wenger admits Arsenal made “bad decisions” in the draw with Liverpool, but the Frenchman was happy with a point.

Leading 3-2 after two goals from Olivier Giroud and one from Aaron Ramsey had seen the Gunners twice come from behind after a brace from Roberto Firmino, they were hit with a late sucker punch from substitute Joe Allen.

With Manchester City being held to a goalless draw at home to Everton, Arsenal missed the chance to open up a five-point gap over their third-placed rivals – Leicester’s win at Tottenham ensured they stayed level with the leaders.

“I am frustrated by the result and not disappointed by the performance,” said Wenger, who confirmed they have finally concluded the transfer of Basel midfielder Mohamed Elneny, who could be in contention to face Stoke City at the weekend.

“We started a bit apprehensive in the first 20 minutes, a bit on the back foot and went 1-0 down, came back convincingly, went 2-1 down, showed character again, made it 2-2 and then 3-2.

“The frustration comes from the fact that at 3-2 we had three situations where we should have made it 4-2 and made bad decisions.

“The frustration then comes from conceding a goal in the last minute.

“We have shown again great character to come back with a point.

“We have to transform the frustration in the dressing room into even more motivation.

“There are a lot of positives. What happened in this game should strengthen our belief.”

On Elneny, Wenger said briefly: “He has joined us and we will see if he can qualify for Sunday.”