• Premier League

Arsenal's belief reinforced, says Wenger

Per Mertesacker led the Arsenal celebrations at full-time - at a ground where they lost 6-3 last-season © Getty Images

Enlarge

Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal's landmark away win at Manchester City can inspire his team to glory in the final five months of the season.

Arsenal won 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium, recording their first away win against Manchester City, Manchester United or Chelsea since 2010.

Arsene Wenger's side conceded 17 goals in their three away games at Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea last season © Getty Images

Enlarge

Related Links

• News: Arsenal 'in talks' with Villarreal defender Paulista
  
• News: Giroud reveals formula for Arsenal's success at City
  
• News: Ramsey: Coquelin proving his class at Arsenal
  
• News: United striker Falcao insists goals will come
  
• News: Monreal dived for Arsenal penalty, says Pellegrini
  
• SnReport: Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud land Arsenal victory at Man City
  

The victory, which was secured by goals from Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud, took Arsenal up to fifth.

"What is for sure is that it increases the level of belief and confidence." said Wenger. "The five months in front of us are very important in the lifespan of the team. What you make of that will decide our season.

"We looked in control away from home and we finally got a big win in a big game away from home. What is pleasing is that reinforces the belief of the team."

Wenger, whose team conceded 17 goals in their three away games against the top three last season, lauded his defence after they kept a clean sheet.

He added: "We had a good solidarity level and good compactness. Sometimes, the fact that you have to find solutions internally is a blessing."

Francis Coquelin, who had been on loan at Charlton, impressed as the defensive midfielder and Wenger praised his fellow Frenchman.

He said: "He has gone through some difficult periods but he is a learner from his experiences. I always kept faith in him and told him three months ago he needed to play. He accepted to go to Charlton, he came back and does very well.

"People are very quick on their judgement, you forget that we had many defenders out all season. As you saw today the centre-backs are a good partnership and it takes time to get back to that level. It's down to everybody doing their job."

Great team effort, everyone worked their socks off #AFC pic.twitter.com/7V4k1OzXFb— Aaron Ramsey (@aaronramsey) January 18, 2015

Midfielder Cazorla scored Arsenal's opener and set up their second goal and Wenger hailed the in-form Spaniard.

"Santi Cazorla has been superb for a while now but today he was maybe even more influential," he said.

"Now he is at a level of his career where [playing in the] central he can have more influence. He is fantastic, he gets you out of pressure in very tight space and can give you openings. He is a great example. He shows how important it is to be two footed in the middle of the park. He wants always to have the ball. He passionately loves the game."

Olivier Giroud doubled Arsenal's lead © Getty Images

Enlarge

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd