Arsene Wenger praised the performance of forward Theo Walcott after his two goals secured his side a 2-0 Champions League win over Basel on Wednesday night.
Walcott scored a header and a sweeping finish in the first half to make it a comfortable night at the Emirates for the Gunners, though it could have been more had Wenger's side taken their chances. Nevertheless, Arsenal have taken four points from their first two games in the group and stand in a good position to qualify for the knockout rounds.
According toESPN,Wenger said after the victory: "It was a game of top quality in the first half, the pace and technical quality of our movement. We created a lot of opportunities. I regret a bit we didn't take enough of the chances we created, but it's a good basis to have a thirst for more.
"In the second half we eased a bit off, couldn't score the third goal, but it's hard to maintain that pace and accuracy in the passing and speed of the game for 90 minutes. The first half was top, top quality like we produced against Chelsea (a 3-0 home win last weekend).
"It's down to hard work, but also to belief. Belief comes with the last few results. The confidence comes from the last few results.
Unbeaten in 8 games ✅
4 wins in a row ✅
4 Premier League wins in a row ✅
3 clean sheets in a row ✅
Wenger Out Brigade. Where you at?
😂😂😂
"We hadn't beat Chelsea at home for a few games, and now it looks like we're playing with full power and pace. Now it's about continuing to improve. We know we can be better. That will be down to humility, starting tomorrow morning again and focusing on the next game."
Speaking on Walcott's contribution and if Wenger's words had helped the forward secure a possible route back in to the England squad, he added:"The best recommendation is his performances. It's difficult to ignore him if you see him playing tonight. But I will leave that to (Gareth)Southgate now.
"Look, it's not the chat that makes you score goals. He assessed well where he stands, and rectified well what he had to add to his game.That's 95 percent down to him."
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