Critics made me stronger, says Mertesacker
LONDON: 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 line-up for 392 days in Saturday’s Wembley showpiece against Chelsea.
A serious knee injury suffered 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 centreback 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 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.”
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 the misery of 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. “For the trust from my teammates and my manager because being sidelined for such a long time, I suffered a lot this season because you want to contribute on the pitch.” Mertesacker said.