Arsene Wenger has praised his side’s performance against Swansea on Saturday, singling out their ‘mental strength’ as a key component of the victory.

Swansea took the lead in the game after Sam Clucas opened the scoring, and it wasn’t until the second half when the Gunners responded – with two goals coming in a short space of time from Sead Kolasinac and Aaron Ramsey.

The result leaves Arsenal 5th in the table, level on points with Chelsea who sit 4th. They remain 9 points off leaders Manchester City, but Wenger insists he is happy with his team’s character and determination to win games.

“I’m very happy with the three points. I think overall we had a good domination, maybe in the first half our pace was not quick and sharp enough, but in the second we upped the tempo and created many chances.

“Again we showed mental strength to come back from 1-0 down to win 2-1. Overall it was vital for us to win the game today.

“The best always is to show on the pitch what you can do, and I am convinced we did that at Everton, against Everton, and again today. That can only make the team stronger as well.

“In the first half I felt we were not sharp enough in the duels, we let them win some of the 50-50s and maybe were lucky not to concede a second goal, but the second half was much better.

“For the confidence it was very important. Once you’re 1-1 there is still 40 minutes to score another goal, it gives a more serene attitude and confidence.”
[Quotes via Sky Sports]