Jurrien Timber has admitted Arsenal must “address and talk about” the nervousness they’re feeling when trying to clinch victory within the closing levels of video games.
The Gunners edged previous Chelsea 2-1 on Sunday however wanted goalkeeper David Raya to tug off a 92nd-minute save to disclaim Alejandro Garnacho on the demise.
Because the flip of the 12 months, Arsenal have conceded late objectives in opposition to Wolves, Brentford and Manchester United which have value them factors and Timber admitted the scare in opposition to Chelsea was “unnecessary”.
“You feel it, especially at the end,” mentioned Timber on Sunday night when requested concerning the strain on the group when seeing out video games.
“We stopped enjoying a bit [against Chelsea], which was pointless – particularly with a person up. It is one thing we have to work on, speak about as nicely.
“It occurred a few occasions this season already. We put a lot effort into the sport, particularly within the first half, and it’s a must to go up 1-0 or 2-0, however this stuff occur – particularly in opposition to a great group like Chelsea.
“It’s part of the game, you have to understand what happens in the moment. The energy within the players and the crowd, the anxiety. It’s something we need to address and talk about.”
The win over Chelsea saved Arsenal 5 factors away from Manchester Metropolis, who’ve a recreation in hand, however Timber says the Gunners can not begin pondering the title is any nearer regardless of there being simply 9 video games to go for them.
“I heard it was nine games to go but it still feels so far off because we’re playing in Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup,” he added. “Game by game. If we look too far ahead, it becomes a bit a bit too much.”
‘It will probably outline a season’ – Timber’s reward for Raya
Timber was filled with reward for Raya, who had a standout recreation in purpose in opposition to Chelsea.
Within the first half, he made an outstanding cease to stop a Declan Rice personal purpose off the Arsenal midfielder’s elbow, then made three second-half saves, together with a two-handed seize to disclaim Joao Pedro from point-blank vary. That each one got here earlier than his heroics to disclaim Garnacho in harm time.
“David is amazing,” mentioned Timber. “Often he shows that he wins us games. He has a lot of magic moments. He’s a great character and a leader in our group.
“He made a great save, [there were] some good defensive actions as nicely with Huge Gabi [Gabriel]. These actions you want within the recreation, they will outline a season.”
Arsenal’s subsequent six fixtures – together with a cup remaining!
March 4: Brighton (A), Premier League, kick-off 7.30pm
March 7: Mansfield City (A), FA Cup fifth spherical, kick-off 12.30pm
March 11: Bayer Leverkusen (A), Champions League final 16 first leg, kick-off 5.45pm
March 14: Everton (H), Premier League, kick-off 5.30pm, stay on Sky Sports activities
March 17: Bayer Leverkusen (H), Champions League final 16 second leg, kick-off 8pm
March 22: Man Metropolis (N), Carabao Cup remaining, Wembley, kick-off 4.30pm, stay on Sky Sports activities

