Wednesday, 07 December 2011 10:03
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Arsene Wenger: Taking positives from Greek defeat
Arsene Wenger believes his young charges will take plenty away from a 3-1 UEFA Champions League defeat by Olympiakos.
The Arsenal boss made sweeping changes to his starting XI on Tuesday for a continental outing in Greece.The likes of Emmanuel Frimpong, Francois Coquelin and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain were all given an opportunity to get priceless minutes under their belt in Europe's premier club competition.They were unable to prevent the Gunners from coming unstuck, but the Premier League outfit were already assured of their place in the last 16.Wenger refused to read too much into the result afterwards, with it more important for him to give his promising youngsters another taste of the big stage."It was a fantastic experience, they realise what intensity that you need at this level and some young players have shown good things," said the Frenchman."But there was a bit of lack of experience and maturity in midfield where you need to hold the ball better when we were under pressure."CommittedWenger believes lapses in concentration ultimately cost Arsenal in midweek, but he had no complaints about the overall outcome of the contest."We had the early chances, but Olympiakos played a very committed game and made a good battle," he said."We lost too many balls in the first half and overall became a bit insecure."We could sense there was something more at stake for Olympiakos than us, and that made a difference."Overall Olympiakos deserved to win, but unfortunately for them it is not enough to qualify."Meanwhile, it is being reported that Arsenal are to honour three of their former heroes with statues outside Emirates Stadium.As part of the club's 125th anniversary celebrations, it is believed the Gunners will unveil sculptures immortalising legendary manager Herbert Chapman, former skipper Tony Adams and record goalscorer Thierry Henry.Read more http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/7357037/
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