Arsene Wenger couldn’t conceal his frustration after Arsenal’s dramatic 3-3 draw at Liverpool saw the Gunners waste an opportunity to consolidate their position at the top of the Premier League.
But Wenger claimed Wednesday’s thrilling contest at Anfield underlined his team’s title credentials as he challenged his players to use their disappointment as a motivation for a first English crown in 12 years.
After chief rivals Manchester City were held at home to Everton, the Arsenal manager saw Joe Allen’s last-minute equaliser cost his team two points to leave them ahead of second placed Leicester only on goal difference.
“I am frustrated by the result and not disappointed by the performance, even if we started a bit apprehensively,” said Wenger.
“The frustration comes from the fact that at 3-2 we had three situations when we could have made it 4-2 and made a bad decision.
“That was a frustration for me but that can happen in England but overall a game between two teams who gave absolutely everything. Look at the results tonight it showed everywhere is even.
“I feel they need to transform that frustration into more motivation for the next game because there are more positives than negatives tonight.
“What happened tonight strengthened my belief we can have a big part to play in this league.”
Wenger hopes he can bolster his team before the weekend visit to Stoke, traditionally a tough fixture for his team, with the injured Alexis Sanchez and new signing Mohamed Elneny both potentially in contention.
“I am a bit cautious now,” said Wenger of Sanchez and his hamstring injury.
“There is an opportunity he will be involved in the squad on Sunday. Friday and Saturday will be two important days.
“Elneny has joined us and we will see if he can qualify for Sunday.”
Liverpool twice led with goals through Roberto Firmino only for Aaron Ramsey and Olivier Giroud to cancel them out on each occasion.
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