Arsene Wenger left to rue Arsenal’s chance to go top

“It’s a disappointing result but I have to say well done to Southampton.”

ARSENE Wenger admitted Arsenal were second-best after their surprising 4-0 defeat to Southampton on Saturday evening.

A Shane Long brace, combined with goals from Cuco Martina and Jose Fonte, denied the Gunners the chance to go top following Leicester City’s defeat to Liverpool, leaving The Foxes on top by two points.

Wenger felt his side’s opponents were sharper in various aspects of the game, yet also felt luck was not on Arsenal’s side.

“I don’t much take too much notice of the scoreline in my consideration but we lost too many challenges, they were sharper than us,” he told BT Sport.

“We were unlucky on the first one [goal]. The first shot on goal from the right-back [Martina] goes in the top corner.

“The second one was a foul on [Laurent] Koscielny and that was the turning point but the referee didn’t see it, then we were exposed on counter-attacks.

“It’s a disappointing result but I have to say well done to Southampton.

“In many challenges we were second best. The referee let a lot go as well but when you’re not dominant that’s the price you pay.”

Arsenal have a short turnaround time ahead of Monday’s clash against Bournemouth, yet Wenger is confident his charges will bounce back quickly.

“I said many times it’s down to consistency to fight in every game and find the resources to produce top-level performances,” he said.

“These players have fantastic spirit and they will show that in 48 hours.

“We want to respond from disappointment. I trust my players to respond well on Monday.” Kickoff.com