Arsenal boss believes youngsters have what it takes
Arsene Wenger knows Arsenal will have to be "on their toes" to see off the challenge of Villarreal at Emirates Stadium next week, but remains confident his side's determination will see the Gunners through to the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Togo striker Emmanuel Adebayor scored a wonderful equaliser during the second half to earn Arsenal a 1-1 draw in Spain to cancel out an equally impressive opener from Villarreal captain Marcos Senna.
However, the performance was overshadowed by the loss of centre-half William Gallas, most likely for the rest of the season, with a knee injury while goalkeeper Manuel Almunia also had to be replaced after aggravating an old ankle problem.
Nevertheless, Wenger believes his young squad are growing in stature and have what it takes to stay on the road to Rome.
"It puts us in a great position, but we want to qualify at home and to repeat the type of performance we did in the second half," the Arsenal manager said.
"I am confident, the quality we have shown added to the mental strength and desire we have shown
"But we know Villarreal are a good team as well, so we will be on our toes and focused at Emirates."
Wenger added: "This team has shown the whole season they are mentally very strong and when they have back to the wall, these young players always find an answer which is very interesting for a young team.
"I believe we have created momentum. We are a very young team, but are capable to focus.
"We have shown with the consistency we have in the .125English.375 championship that we are able to concentrate every three days, and at that age, that is a big quality."
Togo striker Adebayor made it three in two games following his double against Manchester City with a stunning scissors-kick to covert a lofted pass from captain Cesc Fabregas on 66 minutes and secure what could prove to be a decisive result.
"It was a great goal, but it was a great game as well," said the Arsenal manager.
"Both teams played well at a high tempo and in an offensive way.
"Villarreal started stronger than us and the early goal made it very difficult.
"In the second half, it was a great response and we took over."
