Win strengthens AW's 'belief'

Win strengthens AW's 'belief'

Published Feb. 18, 2011 7:15 a.m. ET

The Gunners have embarked on a schedule of four games in four different competitions across 11 days with Sunday's FA Cup fifth-round tie against Leyton Orient the next assignment. Wenger believes that a side containing eight starters aged 25 or under can only benefit from their heroics at Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night. "I'm very proud for Arsenal FC. Everyone urged us to play differently to our nature," said Wenger. "This win can strengthen belief in our philosophy, which is more important than pride. "It was a special night for my team. Our players showed exceptional strength and togetherness. The victory will reinforce that. "The age of the team which started is very, very young. What we can do at this age is very promising for the future and our target is to keep them together. "We have the FA Cup on Sunday and that competition is very different. In England you have to be focused for these kind of things." Theo Walcott is expected to recover from a mild hamstring problem in time to face Orient. "We have a little concern about Walcott's hamstring but it should be all right," Wenger told Arsenal TV online. Centre back Johan Djourou is sidelined for the trip to east London after suffering a back problem at the Emirates last night. Right-back Bacary Sagna is available after being suspended against Barcelona but midfielder Abou Diaby is still banned. Striker Marouane Chamakh will return to the squad after missing out against Barcelona. "There will be some rotation. We will see what I do. We play Sunday, Wednesday and then Sunday again," said Wenger. "But I have shown in many competitions that I have the same belief in every player."

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