Arsenal Football Club News

• Nickname:Gunners
• Founded:1886
• Manager:Arsene Wenger

• Ground:Emirates
• Capacity:60,432

Wenger hails cup starlets

12 Nov 2008 - 07:27:22

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Arsene Wenger believes he has a remarkable set of youngsters at his disposal after a youthful Arsenal side overcame Wigan Athletic 3-0 in the Carling Cup.

Wenger named a starting line-up in which the average age of the outfield players was just 18, but they rose to the occasion as a brace from Jay Simpson and a beauty from Carlos Vela were enough to book their place in the quarter-finals.

"I enjoyed every minute of it because it was a big test for such a young team with many under-18 players involved," claimed the Frenchman.

"I believe we stood up to the test and it was a remarkable combination of desire, energy and quality.

"From the first to the last minute we looked up for it and were relentless in having a go at Wigan. In the end it was a fantastic win."

Meanwhile, Wenger believes the English backbone to his side bodes well for the future of the national side.

"I believe, on the players you have seen tonight, England has a competitive future," he added.

"You have Gavin Hoyte, who for me had an outstanding game, Kieran Gibbs, Mark Randall, Jack Wilshere - all four are top class.

"Also there is Jay Simpson, Henri Lansbury, Emmanuel Frimpong and Abu Ogogo."