Arsenal’s Wojciech Szczesny: We’re stronger than we were a year ago

Wojciech Szczesny insists Arsenal are better-placed to challenge for trophies than they were a year ago.

The Gunners have not won silverware since their 2005 FA Cup final triumph over Manchester United, despite reaching two Carling Cup finals in 2007 and 2011 and pushing for the Premier League title in 2007-08.

Arsene Wenger has already added Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud to his ranks this summer, with Jack Wilshere and Abou Diaby poised to return from long-term injuries.

And despite the seemingly inevitable exit of star striker Robin van Persie, Szczesny is adamant that the Gunners can fight for trophies on all fronts next season.

“This club always has the same aims and that’s winning trophies,” Szczesny told Arsenal’s website.

“We obviously haven’t done it in the last few years and that’s disappointing for the players and the fans but I believe we will be that little bit stronger than we were last year.

“We have a couple of quality signings already. And we’re confident we can fight for the trophies more than we did last year.

“I think the players who were lacking experience last year now have that experience. We have a couple of signings, more players who can score goals. And Podolski’s goal record speaks for itself.

“We’re strong offensively and [assistant manager] Steve Bould has been doing some fantastic work with the defence. That seems to be working very well. It all makes me believe we’ll be that little bit stronger.”