We’re not ready yet, warns Wenger
ARSENE WENGER last night told of his “positive weekend” after his Arsenal side began their season with a trophy after retaining the Emirates Cup.
The Gunners sealed their home pre-season tournament victory with a 3-2 win over Celtic yesterday thanks to goals from Carlos Vela, Bacary Sagna and Samir Nasri, while AC Milan and Lyon drew 1-1 in the other game.
But it was the performance of several of the club’s youngsters which gave Wenger food for thought, notably midfield starlet Jack Wilshere, who caught the eye as he looks to force his way into the boss’s plans for this season.
But while Wenger was happy with his side’s performance, he admits it’s only a stepping stone and warns his side are not yet ready for the start of the Premier League campaign.
“I think it’s a positive weekend because we have no big injuries and played quite well, seen two new players and some good young players,” the Frenchman said.
“I think overall in the first half we controlled the game and yesterday and today you could see that physically and mentally we are not able to maintain the concentration for 90 minutes.
“In both games we suffered in the last 20. I believe it’s down to the fact that we work very hard and are not completely ready.”
One of Wenger’s toughest decisions is surely whether or not to give 17-year-old Wilshere his chance to shine after the academy star was farmed out on loan to Bolton last season for first-team experience.
“He has done well in the last two games,” Wenger added. “He has shown as well that some things at this level you cannot afford to do – when he [conceded] the penalty.
“But overall his contribution is very positive. There is competition there and there is no guaranteed place for Wilshere or any other players, it is down to performance.
“We are in a competitive world and it’s down of course to how well you do.”