Wenger keen to set the tone

12 April 2012

Arsene Wenger insists the result of Arsenal's Champions League first-leg clash with holders AC Milan on Wednesday night could prove to be "mentally decisive".

The Gunners boss admitted the mood in the camp had been somewhat "quiet" earlier this week following their 4-0 thrashing in the FA Cup tie at Manchester United, but he accepts there will now be little margin for error in what is now a straight knockout over two legs.

"Usually it is decisive. Not only mathematically - but mentally," said Wenger. "I noticed it always has great, great weight on the second leg. Why? Because it can strengthen belief one side and weaken the belief on the others. Usually that is very difficult to reverse."

Arsenal were anything but their usual cohesive self at Old Trafford, notably in defence where central defensive partners William Gallas and Kolo Toure - just back from the African Nations Cup - looked at times as if they had never played together.

But Wenger remains confident his young squad have both the temperament and talent to produce a result they can defend at the San Siro in a fortnight's time.

"I am not worried at all, I'm focused on Wednesday's game and that is the most important, what is in front of us," declared the Arsenal manager.

"We have such high targets, we are five points ahead in the Premier League and we have a fantastic opportunity against Milan, who are the holders of the trophy.

"I believe when you are at the top level, people expect always the worst for you, but it is down to your quality to show you can cope with this kind of game."

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