Arsenal have been beset by defensive problems for what seems like an eternity now and their latest centre-half signing, Mertesacker, has already come in for heavy criticism. Wenger, however, insists Mertesacker has the ability to organise and be the on-field leader Arsenal have missed since Patrick Vieira left the club. He has also pointed out that he has put together a successful defence before - and he is confident Mertesacker can be a big part of a new solid backline. Wenger said: "I inherited a fantastic defence (in 1996) but that was not the unbeatable team, that was not the best team. The defence with Lauren, Sol Campbell, Kolo Toure and Ashley Cole was the unbeatable team. "I think Mertesacker can be a talker. Trust the Germans, he is a fighter. I am happy with what I see from him. Many times people judge you quickly. I am happy with the buys we made. I am not happy with the results, that is completely different." In fact, Wenger was happy to compare Mertesacker's potential influence with an Arsenal legend in Adams. Wenger said: "He is a little bit like that (Adams). Not the quickest but he uses his brain well. Mertesacker is getting stronger in every single game. He is getting more aggressive. I like him personally. He's a very intelligent player and will be a big asset for us." While Arsenal have taken just seven points from seven matches in the league so far this season, Wenger is convinced a top four finish is still realistic. "It is important for us to be consistent in the Premiership," he said. "We are a club of a certain stature and it is important that we do not let teams run away from us." Arsenal will also resume their Champions League campaign on Wednesday when they travel to Marseille. Their form in Europe so far has been good, negotiating that qualifying tie against Udinese and drawing against Borussia Dortmund and beating Olympiakos in the group stage. Marseille, however, top the group after two wins and Wenger said: "Marseille have potential and a good midfield. They are a good team (beat Dortmund 3-0). "Marseille can be dangerous because they are good at counter-attack and I think at home they will try to play like that against us. "The two games against Marseille will decide our qualification. If we take four points we will qualify, it is as simple as that."
