Breathing space for Wenger after Arshavin’s timely strike

ARSENE Wenger was a relieved man after Arsenal finally got their Barclays Premier League campaign up and running with a narrow 1-0 win over gallant Swansea at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners were in need of a response following a nightmare start to the season, which saw them sell both captain Cesc Fabregas and playmaker Samir Nasri before being beaten 8-2 at Manchester United ahead of the international break.

There was more than a touch of good fortune about the win, secured by a well-taken effort from Andrey Arshavin following an error by Swans keeper Michel Vorm just before half-time.

For long periods the Welsh side – coached by assistants Colin Pascoe and Alan Curtis as manager Brendan Rodgers missed the game following the death of his father – more than matched Arsenal for enterprise and determination.

Wenger had included all five deadline day signings in the 18-man squad and was glad to get a first victory on the board.

“It was vital to win the game,” said the Gunners boss. “We started quite well, but slowly nerves took over and we played with the handbrake on in the second half.

“We just wanted to get over the line and did not make a mistake, but did not manage to score the second goal. Swansea keep the ball well and make it difficult, are quick on the flanks and have the basics of a very good Premier League team, they just do not score.”

Despite a turbulent few weeks – which also saw Arsenal secure qualification for the group stages of the Champions League – Wenger is in no doubt things will soon turn around.

“Confidence goes quickly and comes back slowly. We are not used to the situation we have been in,” he said. “We will come back – we did not have a lot of players today and when everybody is back, we have a chance. But first, we need to put a few wins together.”

Despite this latest defeat, Pascoe maintained Rodgers could be proud of his team’s efforts: “We have been in contact all the time. He only went last night and was there to see his father pass away. I have spoken to him and he is proud of the way the lads played and performed. Everything had been prepared well for the game and were unlucky not to get a draw.”