Arsenal defended like under-10s during their FA Cup win over Man City, says Paul Merson

Arsenal defended like an under-10s team during their win over Manchester City at the weekend, claims Paul Merson.

The Gunners emerged victorious from their FA Cup semi-final on Sunday but only having come from a goal down.

They conceded when Sergio Aguero was put through on goal from a long-ball over the top from Yaya Toure. Nacho Monreal was on his heels but was unable to catch the Man City striker who clipped his finish past Petr Cech.

Merson was not impressed with the defending from a new-look back-three.

‘After Sunday’s win, Arsene Wenger is now manager of the year, isn’t he?’ he told Sky Sports.

‘Credit where credit’s due though because that was a massive confidence-restoring win for Arsenal and Arsene.

‘The goal they let in was U10s defending but they came back against a good Manchester City team.’

This week Arsenal play champions Leicester – a tough match but one Merson thinks they will be up for, particularly after Liverpool’s defeat at the weekend increased the chances of a top-four finish.

‘Leicester will be up for it but at the same time you will think they will be in a determined mood to get a result, especially after Liverpool’s defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday. That defeat opened the race for the top four wide open.

‘The Gunners have games in hand and if they can get maximum points from them they are going to be right back in it. If Liverpool had beaten Palace, I think Arsenal may have put all their efforts into winning the FA Cup.

‘Now, if they can beat Leicester, they can give themselves a real chance of finishing in the top four. I know they’ve got a massive game against Tottenham on Super Sunday but after that, they haven’t got the worst run-in.’

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