Wenger: Our response was remarkable

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Date	Time	C	Opponent	F	A	R	S
27 Feb	3:00 PM	P	Stoke City (A)	3	1	Win

Arsène Wenger admits he was surprised to see such a strong response from his young players to beat Stoke on Saturday.

The players were visibly distraught after witnessing Aaron Ramsey's horrific injury, but managed to regain their focus and collect a vital three points for Arsenal.

The manager admitted he was unable to enjoy the result with Ramsey's injury on his mind, but maintains that he was very impressed with his side's character.

He said: "This group is so strong mentally and have a unity so this will give us one more reason to fight until the end and do it for [Ramsey].

"We had some other problems two years ago. But on Saturday we had a midfield of Nasri, Fabregas, Ramsey, Song, Eboue. They have an average of 20 or 21-years-old. Up front, Bendtner is 21-years-old.

"At their age, to handle the game like they did is absolutely remarkable."

He went on to admit he can't help but feel a little guilty for Ramsey's injury, as he has tried hard this season to instruct his players to 'get stuck in' more.

He continued: "I encourage my players to play and be committed. I have a go at them when they don't put their foot in sometimes.

"But as well sometimes I nearly feel guilty to do that because when Aaron goes for the ball like he did on Saturday and gets done like he did, it is not an easy situation.

"But the way I try to play the game, I believe, is the right way. When we don't win, I get a lot of stick because of that way but I still prefer to continue to play like that. We will respect the game, the opponents and try to give pleasure to people who watch us."

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