Arsene Wenger expects Arsenal to respond postively to West Ham loss
Thursday 13 August 2015 10:28, UK
Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal will bounce back from their "unconvincing" opening day defeat to West Ham.
The Gunners were stunned 2-0 at the Emirates on Sunday by goals either side of half-time from Cheikhou Kouyate and Mauro Zarate.
It was a disappointing performance from the Gunners after an impressive pre-season that produced five wins from five matches, including a victory over Chelsea in the Community Shield last weekend.
"We were not convincing offensively or defensively," admitted Wenger. "I knew before the game it would be tricky and that West Ham could be more advanced in their preparation than us.
"But it's just the start of the season... Any championship is never a motorway, it is always about responding well to accidents. Today we have been hurt mentally and it is a good opportunity to show a response."
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The Gunners have been tipped to challenge for the title this season after strengthening over the summer with the signing of Petr Cech.
However, the former Chelsea keeper was at fault for both West Ham goals, which Wenger described as "cheap".
"If you cannot win the game, don't lose it," he said. "I believe we gave away very cheap goals before and after half-time, which made it even more difficult for ourselves.
"The players were not too confident, maybe too nervous, because we didn't respect the basics of the game in some situations, but I don't think they were too confident."
Wenger also said the Hammers were better prepared for the game, having been playing competitive football for over a month in the Europa League.
"West Ham were a bit ahead of us because they had played many competitive games," he commented. "Preparation is preparation, you never get that same intensity, but overall well done West Ham and we have to keep our focus."
