Eduardo's Arsenal winner was 'inevitable' says Arsène Wenger

17 September 2009 08:34
“He always comes up with goals at important times – it is pleasing for him and for us,” said Bendtner. Manager Arsene Wenger described Eduardo’s contribution as “inevitable”, with the Croatia forward making up for a misplaced back-heel that had gifted Liege the lead after just two minutes. “He was caught on the first goal,” said Wenger. “I think in football you have to accept that your team, when you want them to play, takes risks. "Sometimes the risks are not adjusted to the situation, this was a case. He wanted to give the ball to Fabregas and he lost the ball. “It is always inevitable with Eduardo [that he scores]. He is a guy who can always turn up on the crosses because he has that anticipation.” After his team had fallen two goals behind in an extraordinary first five minutes, Wenger admitted that it was particularly crucial his team should recover following recent back-to-back defeats against Manchester United and Manchester City. “It was important because when you are in a big club you cannot afford defeats on the trot,” he said. “It was important to respond after being 2-0 down – I think it will strengthen belief inside the camp. You know it will be tough, we were in a position where we had to attack with full power without restriction. “In the second half, the game dropped a bit, the physical intensity. When they got tired we got some set pieces and took advantage. It shows we are strong especially on a night when Standard gave absolutely everything.” Wenger also again praised the influence of Thomas Vermaelen, who scored a controversial equaliser after both he and Alex Song had appeared to be in offside positions. “It was my intention to take Song off,” said Wenger. “When we had a free-kick I didn’t do it because I know that Song can take dangerous free-kicks. “Vermaelen I think had an outstanding performance. I believe that he has adapted very well and very quickly and once again he has scored. He has also defended very well – he is strong in the air.”

Source: Telegraph