Arsenal boss Wenger hails Mertesacker as a model pro

Arsene Wenger heaped praise on Per Mertesacker after the Arsenal defender came in from the cold to star in his side’s FA Cup final success on Saturday afternoon.

The experienced German centre-half had only managed one appearance – as a substitute against Everton on the final day of the Premier League – before taking to the field at Wembley but was a colossus at the back for the Gunners as they beat Chelsea 2-1.

Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey scored either side of a Diego Costa equaliser as Arsenal overcame the Blues, and the Gunners boss believes that Mertesacker’s display was borne of his professionalism.

“Per Mertesacker, for me, is a fantastic example for any young professional football player,” said Wenger.

(Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)

“What he did is just a consequence of an unbelievable attitude every day, even if he was not selected until the Everton game [on May 21].

“He [started] his first game and it is just reward of when he was not selected, he worked even harder, and that’s why I’m [paying] special tribute to him.”

Wenger was also thrilled with the verve shown by Arsenal as they claimed a record 13th FA Cup.

He added: “I think, if you have followed our last two months, we have had outstanding performances.

“This team is moving forward. The way we play suits our players because the way we function gets the best out of them.”