Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger rounded on his players after they threw away a two-goal lead in the last 10 minutes of their 3-2 defeat to Wigan Athletic.
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Wigan 3-2 Arsenal
Arsene Wenger: “It is the most disappointing defeat of the season and the way we conceded, it was also the most disappointing. It is difficult to understand and accept, perhaps the players felt too much comfort but in football you must stay focused for 90 minutes and we were punished.
“We made mistakes and they took advantage, they were sharper in the final part of the game.”
Roberto Martinez: “That’s why you’re involved in football. The players have been applying themselves throughout the season, and they have deservingly beaten a fantastic Arsenal side. Dave Whelan is the reason why we’re in the Premier League. He’s a passionate man and he’s delighted.
“At half time we were really down, we gave them too much respect and gave the ball away too cheaply. I told the players to carry on doing the right things. The first goal was a turning point, and from then on every time we went forward we looked like we were going to get something.”
Avram Grant: “Of course we wanted to win the game today, but first and foremost we wanted to play with pride, put on a good performance, and be professional and we did that.
“I am very happy with the boys even though we lost. We have so many players unavailable and yet we can play like that against a very good team – that pleases me. Despite everything that has happened with this team – and it is not easy – we continue to fight. I am very proud of them.”
Martin O’Neill: “To give ourselves any chance we have to win all our games, and today would have been disappointing, considering the amount of possession we had away from home, not to have taken all three points. I’m delighted we’ve done that and we go to Hull on Wednesday and we’re still full of hope.
“I’ve been saying this for some considerable time, but he (matchwinner Nathan Delfouneso) is going to be a proper player and if he keeps his feet on the ground, he’s got a real proper chance. He’s got real ability and, up to date, his attitude has been excellent.”
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