Last season, Arsène Wenger coined a phrase to explain his patient
philosophy. When journalists questioned his young sides ability to
challenge for honours or even stay in the top four the Frenchman
would say every new day works for us.
It meant his side was growing, developing, maturing and each
training session was a lesson. Now it seems the class of 06/07 is
graduating. The likes of Cesc Fabregas, Emmanuel Eboue, Gael Clichy
and Robin van Persie are first-team regulars. Others such as Abou
Diaby, Denilson, Armand Traore, Philippe Senderos, Justin Hoyte and
Theo Walcott are waiting patiently for a chance. All are a year
older and wiser compared to last year. It has been evident so far
this season.
We have matured, said Wenger at Fridays press conference. We
have a great togetherness and we fight for each other. You could
see that the other night [in Prague].
"You understand some qualities are more important when you get a
bit older. When you are younger you are a little bit obsessed by
your own performance. When you get more mature you understand that
different ingredients are needed to focus on and that is what we
have learned.
"For example, we had a few players cautioned at Sparta and I told
them it was important not to get a second yellow. If the
provocation goes on you have to keep your calm. And that is a very
important quality. At the top level you need the right mix of focus
and being relaxed.
"Focus can bring tension but its like playing golf. To hit the
ball you have to focus but you must relax as well.
