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Per - We must be honest with ourselves

Per Mertesacker

Per Mertesacker says Arsenal's players will work even harder to improve their form after a mixed start to the season.

The Gunners have relied on last-minute goals to snatch valuable points from the jaws of defeat against Hull City and Anderlecht.

After Wednesday’s performance Mertesacker identified what the team needs to improve to realise its potential.

"We have to admit we are not at our best, be honest with ourselves and train harder"

Per Mertesacker

“Everyone knows that it was a difficult start for us and our confidence is not where we want it to be,” the defender admitted. “The character is good, the mentality is good but, football-wise, we lack a few things.

“Our passing game is not as efficient as last year. We have to admit we are not at our best, be honest with ourselves and train harder.

“We have to do better with our own possession to put more pressure on the [opposition], not lose so many balls in the middle of the park and play more in the wide areas. However, the finishing is just great at the moment and that keeps me believing and in a good mood.

“Everyone was really happy after the game and that creates belief and togetherness. That really helps us come back to full strength.”

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