Wenger - Team stronger than it was in August

For Arsène Wenger, progress has been palpable at Arsenal this season.

Speaking before the weekend game, Wenger pointed out that this development, plus a little less ill-fortune with injuries, could make a difference next season. In a season in which the thinnest of margins have decided the spoils, the Arsenal manager believes his side have ended the campaign in much better shape than they began it.

“You have to remember players like Walcott and Bendtner are not the same as they were at the start of the season," said the Frenchman. "Also Van Persie and Rosicky have been injured for the majority of the season. They will not be out injured for the whole season every year.

“That's why I feel we have not dropped our level. We made 68 points last year and 83 this season which is a good achievement. What is important now is to progress again next season."