Wenger urges his Gunners to come out on top

ArseneWenger is hoping to buck the trend and take Arsenal to the top of their Champions League group, starting with tonight’s home match against Basel.

The Gunners have made it through the group stage for the past 16 years, but have failed to get beyond the round of 16 in the previous six attempts.

The problem has been their inability to finish in top spot in their group, leaving them open to face some of Europe’s elite clubs.

Barcelona eased past Wenger’s side last year but, after a draw at Paris St Germain in their opening game of Group A, the Frenchman is hoping that can lead to advancing as group winners.

“It’s our target but the truth is on the pitch,” he said.

“We had a good game on Saturday, but let’s show we can go from good game to good game and put the effort in, in every single game.

“In recent years we came always out of the group stage. Last year, let’s say it was difficulties because we made it difficult for ourselves and we have learned as well that in the group stage it’s not only important to qualify but, if possibly, qualify as top of the group.

“It gives more chances after to go through.”

While PSG will be considered to be the main rivals to Wenger’s ambitions of winning the group the 66-year-old, who celebrates 20 years in charge at Arsenal on October 1, acknowledges tonight’s opposition can cause an upset.

“They are a team who are used to playing in the Champions League,” he said of Basel. “It’s not a newcomer or a beginner in the Champions League, they have huge experience in the competition.

“This experience goes through the generations and this is why they’re not intimidated. I don’t expect them to be intimidated at all. On the other hand, they have nothing to lose. That’s always dangerous.”