Arsene Wenger: It is my job to pick the players up

Arsene Wenger

Arsene Wenger has admitted that his Arsenal team were completely outplayed by Everton on Sunday as they suffered a 3-0 defeat at Goodison Park, as goals from Steven Naismith, Romelu Lukaku and a Mikel Arteta own goal gave the hosts a valuable three points.

The Gunners were second best to the Toffees and now hold a lead of just one point over Roberto Martinez’ side in the race for fourth place, with Everton still holding a game in hand over Arsenal as well.

Wenger was unhappy with his side’s performance at Goodison, admitting they were second best throughout and got what they deserved.

The Arsenal boss told reporters, “Everton were better than us. We were not at a good level and have to come back to basics.

“We gave away an early goal and then a second that was very easy to avoid.

“In the second half, when we looked like we were coming back into the game, we gave the third goal away.

“It is a very disappointing performance overall.”

Wenger refused to blame the psychological impact of heavy away defeats to Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City and demanded a response when his players go to Wembley to take on Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup semi-finals.

“It is tough to say (if those defeats had an effect) and that cannot be used as an excuse anyway.

“It is my job to pick the players up. We go into an FA Cup semi-final and that is the target. We have to pick ourselves up and come back with a different spirit.”