William Gallas says he is increasingly impressed with
the character shown by Arsenal's young side.
The Gunners captain was one of only three experienced players who
started in Wednesday's goalless Champions League draw at Slavia
Prague which extended Arsenal's unbeaten run to 26 matches.
But despite resting a host of his key players Arsene Wenger's side
still secured the point they needed in Group H to ensure
qualification to the knockout stages with two games still to
play.
And Gallas admits the likes of Abou Diaby, Lassana Diarra, Alex
Song, Denilson, Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner gained valuable
experience from the trip to the Czech Republic.
He said: "I told them before the game to be careful, because it
would be a difficult match, and to be ready for the fight. They did
the job very well.
"The young guys are ready and have shown their character.
Quality
"I was not surprised by their quality. Before the season started I
knew the players would be ready for the big fight and try to be on
the top.
"What is good is that everybody can play and can show how they are
strong."
The 30-year-old France defender added: "We are very happy, but it
is not finished yet as we have two more games to play in the
Champions League.
"Now we can rest a little bit and think about the Premier
League.
"We have to be ready for the big fight again when we play Sevilla
because they lost to us and will now want to beat us in their
stadium."
