Arsene Wenger: Arsenal’s clash at West Brom a ‘massive’ game

Arsene Wenger has warned his Arsenal side to prepare for a “massive test” of their title credentials at West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

The Gunners head into this weekend’s Premier League fixtures top of the table and fresh from having secured their 10th straight win in all competitions after a 2-0 win over Napoli at The Emirates on Tuesday.

And the Frenchman is expecting a difficult game against Steve Clarke’s men, who will be on a high after securing a shock 2-1 victory against defending champions Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend.

“We don’t look too much at the fact of [whether the match] is away or at home,” said Wenger. “We play with the same desire and the same attitude because we have a level of confidence.

“But West Brom represents a good test for us. They are on the back of an outstanding result at Manchester United. Their confidence levels are high and it will be a very interesting test.”

Wenger, whose second-string Arsenal side beat West Brom on penalties in the League Cup third round last week, also feels that the Baggies have considerable strength in depth in their squad.

“They had quite a strong side out [in the League Cup],” he continued. “Many of the regular players played.

“But they have a big squad; I noticed when I looked at their team at Manchester United that they have a massive squad of experienced players, so it’s very difficult to predict who will play against us.

“Of course [they will be on a high after the Old Trafford win]. That’s why I think the game will be very interesting.

“It’s a massive game for us and it’s an exciting game as well because both teams have full confidence and have quality.”

Wenger also confirmed that right-back Bacary Sagna will miss the game with a hamstring injury that is set to keep him out of action for at least three weeks.