Criticism only drives me on, insists Mertesacker

Arsenal captain Per Mertesacker lifted the FA Cup for the Gunners on Saturday before insisting any criticism aimed his way only makes him a better player.

The German World Cup winner had not started a game all season but was called upon for the final against Chelsea after suspension and injury decimated Arsenal’s defence.

Despite concerns over his fitness having only featured for 37 minutes over the course of the entire campaign, Mertesacker was a man-ofthe-match contender as Arsene Wenger’s side secured a 2-1 win at Wembley.

It was expected the 32-year-old would endure a torrid afternoon against the likes of Diego Costa and Eden Hazard, but instead he was at the top of the game, leading Wenger to single him out for individual praise.

And Mertesacker said that the more his ability is questioned the better he will become. “I expect myself to perform at that level every single week,” he said.

“I don’t know if I’m capable but I’ve done it for 15 years. The more people that write me off, the stronger I get. That’s my feeling.

“I think we have shown greatsupportinhim(Wenger) as well and for his trust in us. We have shown with that performance, it’s a statement.”

Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey netted either side of a Costa strike to give Arsenal their 13th FA Cup, and seventh under Wenger.

Aaron Ramsey, though, headed home Arsenal’s winner.

Mertesacker showed a mixture of composure, strength and leadership to patrol Arsenal’s back three in his first start of the campaign.

“I’m just blessed for this opportunity,” added the former Werder Bremen man.

“For the trust from my team-mates and my managerbecausebeingsidelinedfor such a long time, I suffered a lot this season because you want to contribute on the pitch.

“To be able to do that (at Wembley) was a very proud moment for myself and to lead the team out for the first time officially as captain is a great moment for myself.

“At the end of the day, everyone trusted me and supported me throughout the season and the manager gave me the opportunity.”