‘Arsenal need to hit rhythm early’
Recent problems have left them in danger of second place finish in their Champions League group
Carl Jenkinson admits Arsenal must cut out their habit of making lethargic starts if they are to get back on track against Bournemouth today.
Arsene Wenger’s side have failed to win their last three matches in all competitions and Jenkinson believes the Gunners have only themselves to blame.
In both last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Manchester United and Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Paris Saint Germain, Arsenal were slow out of the blocks and eventually fell behind.
Although Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 18 matches in all competitions, their recent problems have left them fourth in the Premier League and in danger of an unwanted second place finish in their Champions League group.
Even Wenger says their momentum has been lost and Gunners right-back Jenkinson, who is expected to start against Bournemouth in place of the injured Hector Bellerin, has warned his teammates to ensure they make a flying start on today.
“Starting slowly has happened a couple of times of late,” Jenkinson said.
“I think at Man United we especially didn’t start at our best and against PSG similarly.
“It is something we have got to be aware of because it has happened a couple of times lately.
“It makes a big difference, not just at this level but in the Premier League as well. You look at the stats and whoever scores the first goal, they generally go on to win the game.
“We have let that drop a bit lately and if we get the first goal, nine times out of 10 we win and we need to get back to doing that.”
Jenkinson’s frustration at Arsenal’s self-inflicted wounds is tempered by pride at the way they battled back against quality opponents like United and French champions PSG.