Fairytale return for Arsenal defender Per

PER Mertesacker says his key role in Arsenal’s FA Cup final triumph was fuelled by the critics who claimed he was past his best.

With Arsenal’s defence ravaged by injury and suspension, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger handed Mertesacker his first appearance in the starting lineup for 392 days in Saturday’s Wembley showpiece against Chelsea.

A serious knee injury last year led to a lengthy spell on the sidelines for Mertesacker and when the German returned to fitness he was unable to regain his place.

The 32-year-old had played only 37 minutes all season after coming off the bench in last weekend’s win against Everton.

But the absence of Laurent Koscielny, Gabriel and Shkodran Mustafi gave Wenger no option but to end Mertesacker’s exile.

Against all expectations, the centre back emerged as the towering foundation of Arsenal’s 2-1 triumph.

And Mertesacker, who lifted the trophy as Arsenal captain, claimed the chance to silence the pundits who had written him off helped inspire his dominant display.

“I expect myself to perform at that level every week,” he said.

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

Despite playing in a three-man defence for the first time in his career, Mertesacker’s composure and leadership were crucial to subduing Chelsea striker Diego Costa and playmaker Eden Hazard.

The former Werder Bremen defender was delighted to help Arsenal finish a troubled season on a high note as they rebounded from failing to qualify for the Champions League by winning the FA Cup for the third time in four years.

“I’m just blessed for this opportunity,” Mertesacker said.

“To be able to do that today was a very proud moment for myself, and to lead the team out for the first time officially as captain is a great moment.”

While Mertesacker left Wembley on a high, it was a downbeat departure for John Terry, who was an unused substitute in his final Chelsea match.

After 22 years, 717 appearances and countless trophies, Terry has brought down the curtain on his playing career with the Premier League champions.

Terry will head off on holiday before deciding whether to retire or accept one of several offers to continue playing. – AFP