Arsenal have proven we have what it takes, declares Wojceich Szczesny

Wojceich Szczesny believes Arsenal’s battling victory at Sunderland on Saturday proves that the Gunners have what it takes to secure a top-four finish.

Santi Cazorla’s first-half goal was all that separated the two sides at the Stadium of Light, with the north Londoners having to hold firm in the second half following Carl Jenkinson’s sending off.

Arsenal remain four points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur in the race for Champions League qualification.

And goalkeeper Szczesny feels that Arsene Wenger’s men have demonstrated that they are up for the fight after the win over the Black Cats.

“I thought we deserved the win and the urgency in our own penalty area was fantastic,” Szczesny told Arsenal Player.

“Bacary [Sagna] came in at centre back and cleared everything that came into the box. It was difficult once Carl got sent off, and we were playing with a back four that had never played together. But I thought they all did a tremendous job.

“Every ball that was played across, we were the first to clear it, so they deserve a lot of credit for the way we played.

“I think we proved to a lot of people that we have what it takes to be successful because it wasn’t the best game in terms of quality, but we showed everyone the character and desire we have to get a result.

“We are delighted with the way we won the game. You always expect a very tough game when you go up north; they play very direct football and are very strong.

“They had a real desire to get a result and I thought Sunderland played really well, but we stood up against it and showed character.”