Arsene Wenger has stated that the upcoming game against Steve McClaren’s Newcastle will be another tough test and believes his side must prepare well to overcome their opposition.
Speaking to the media on Thursday morning, Wenger admitted that the north East side are always difficult to play against because they have the full support of their fans, which urges them on: “We want to do well at Newcastle but it’s always very, very, very tight and very committed there because the crowd is always behind their team.”
The Arsenal manager also commented on the fact that Newcastle’s impressive result against a strong Manchester United side will only add fuel to their desire and motivate them coming into Saturday’s clash.
“They have just come out from a good result at Manchester United so it’s important that we prepare well and we give absolutely everything to win this game before the break.”
Wenger moved on to argue, however, that his side relish the pressure of big games and as a result, tend to perform better.
“We have always done very well away from home.
“Last season and the season before, it was the last game of the season that we had to win.
“There has always been something big at stake, but we like pressure.”
This season, Newcastle are playing their football under a new manager: Steve McClaren. Wenger believes that the Englishman’s time abroad will have been of great benefit to him and would urge other English manager’s to do likewise.
“I would encourage more English coaches to go abroad because sometimes, especially when you have managed the national team, the best thing is to get out of the country for a while and then come back.
“I believe we had a good example with Bobby Robson who did that. I think it was a clever move for Steve McClaren and he has done well.”
This upcoming fixture will undoubtedly be important for both sides as Arsene Wenger’s men chase the title and McClaren will be hoping to pick up his first win as the Newcastle head honcho.
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