10 clean sheets: Arsene Wenger praises “vital” Arsenal defence

Arsene Wenger was full of praise for his sides defensive line after they overcame Fulham at the Emirates.

Santi Cazorla netted twice to secure a 2-0 victory, as Arsenal retained their grip on top spot of the Premier League.

And while he was pleased to see the Spaniard grab a game-saving brace, Wenger enthused about the defensive performance of his team, with Arsenal having kept more clean sheets than any other team in the division.

Wenger told reporters after the game, “Defensively, we did really well today.

“We were one-paced in the first half and then Cazorla delivered two excellent goals and everyone is happy. In the second period it looked like a matter of time.

“Santi has missed a large part of the season, but he is free from pain in his ankle now and we are seeing what a great player he is.

“Stability though is vital. We have to be patient going forward and that is why I believe our defenders deserve credit.

“It’s a nice pressure being in the top four, but we can live with that and focus on our performances.”

Arsenal have now won five games on the bounce as they continue to defy the experts and maintain their title challenge.

Arsenal made 57 defensive actions in the game, making four blocks, 20 interceptions and 33 clearances, while they conceded just five fouls against Fulham.