Arsene Wenger predicts Arsenal will be 'dangerous' underdogs in Champions League last-16
Wednesday 9 December 2015 19:09, UK
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes his side will be "dangerous" underdogs if they qualify for the Champions League knockout stages.
The Gunners face a difficult task to get through, needing to beat Olympiakos in Greece by two clear goals or by any margin with Arsenal scoring at least three goals.
But Wenger believes the fact his side will have come from behind to qualify will make teams underestimate them in the last-16.
"Of course we can be dangerous if we go through because we come from far back," he said.
"Overall, if you look at the numbers since the start of the Champions League group stage, we have played with 10 men in Zagreb, we scored an own goal at home to Olympiakos.
"Every single game we were a bit unlucky but if we get through we will be dangerous, that is for sure.
"At the moment we have two or three super-favourites and whoever gets through tonight or tomorrow will have to chase them."
To Arsenal's detriment in all competitions in recent weeks has been a string of injury problems and they will be without star man Alexis Sanchez on Wednesday, as well as Santi Cazorla, Francis Coquelin, Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere, Tomas Rosicky and Danny Welbeck.
Aaron Ramsey recently returned from injury and Wenger believes he will be key to Arsenal's chances.
He said: "Midfield is important in games like this. Flamini and Ramsey will have to play an important part in a game of this stature but I'm confident that they can and will.
"It is important we focus on the performance. The results come if we play well so let's focus on that. If we play well we have a chance to score.
"Mentally, you prepare yourself to adapt to every situation and give the right response to every situation you face. We will have to adapt to what is happening on the pitch and to all of the scenarios, accept them and respond."
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