For Gael Clichy, the battling point at Blackburn on Sunday was
another example of the subtle transformation that has taken place
at Arsenal this season.
The 22-year-old left back believes Arsène Wengers young side are
stronger physically and mentally than in previous years.
Certainly the tough, tempestuous affair at Ewood Park was exactly
the type of game in which Arsenal might have slipped in the past.
However, at the weekend, they took the lead in the 17th minute and,
despite heavy Blackburn pressure, they looked like holding it until
Jens Lehmann let a long-range drive from David Dunn slip through
his fingers 19 minutes from time.
We know we have the quality to play football, Clichy told
Arsenal.com afterwards. But we know that sometimes the weakness
has been to be physical. Everyone can see we have progressed [this
season] and still want to progress in that way.
We showed it again. Last week we played on Wednesday and then on
Sunday. There was four days in between. But we fought well and we
defended well right from the strikers. Everyone was perfect and we
were unlucky to lose two points in the end.
I cant explain it but it is a new team definitely and a different
spirit definitely. Everyone can see it. I am really proud to see
the team progress like this. Blackburn played good on Sunday but we
were solid so the boss was happy and we were happy too.
Well, I am glad that the team
spirit now is a lil bit different too. But these few
matches,clichy's been quite quiet on the left flank. well except
against sparta prague that is.