Arsenal's Santi Cazorla (L) celebrates his goal from a penalty with teammate Olivier Giroud during their English Premier League soccer match against Manchester City at the Etihad stadium in Manchester, northern England January 18, 2015.
Arsenal's Santi Cazorla (L) celebrates his goal from a penalty with teammate Olivier Giroud during their English Premier League soccer match against Manchester City at the Etihad stadium in Manchester, northern England January 18, 2015. REUTERS/Darren Staples

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger met the press to discuss the performance of his team after winning away from home at the Etihad stadium against the defending champions Manchester City. The Gunners, who won the contest by two goals scored by Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud, had their best game in this season so far. They remain at the fifth position on the league table and trail fourth placed Manchester United by one point and third placed Southampton by three.

When quizzed about the brilliant performance Wenger was quick to point out that the return of key personnel from injury was the most significant factor for his team getting the results in the last few matches. The second reason for this victory according to Wenger was to score the first goal and settle into the match quicker than their opponent.

Wenger thinks that this win has the potential to catapult the team into bigger and better things as it will provide them with the confidence and belief that they can get results anywhere. He was also quick to point out that five months are still left in this season in which this team can take the next step in their progression.

He singled out the performance of Santi Cazorla. He had played the diminutive Spaniard wide in the past but his new position at the center of the pitch is proving very beneficial for the team. According to Wenger his ability to use both his feet equally well is the key to his success. He gets his team out of tight situations and creates openings that often lead to goal scoring situations.

He also was all praise for the young Francis Coquelin. He was sent away on loan to get vital first team experience. With first choice Mikel Arteta out injured he has come back to the club and made the defensive midfielder's position his own.

The referee's actions were defended by Wenger. He reminded the press that he has always wanted additional support for the referees as they are forced into making instant decisions that might have a profound influence in the outcome of the game. Arsenal play Brighton and Hove Albion away from home at a FA Cup match next weekend. They have Premier League action the following weekend against Aston Villa.

To contact the author of this article email a.biswas@IBTimes.com.au

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