Don’t doubt Arsenal’s ability to bounce back

When Arsenal slump to defeat you can hear exactly what Arsene Wenger would be calling for in his post-match interview: to respond in the next game. While it’s pretty straightforward and nothing revolutionary, it has to actually happen.

Having left Crystal Palace with their tails between their legs and a 3-0 scoreline hanging over their heads, nothing other than three points at home to Brighton will suffice. Absolutely nothing else.

On paper this is one of the Gunners’ ‘easier’ games remaining. Some said that about Palace, and look where we are.

Despite being on a seven-game winless run in the Premier League, a period that has also seen them score just the solitary goal, Arsenal can’t take anything for granted in this division. No team can, and especially not now.

Don’t doubt Arsenal’s ability to bounce back – the Gunners’ record in the Premier League after losing matches is cause for optimism

There has to be a reaction and if there is one thing this team can be relied upon to produce this season, it’s just that.

After:

• Defeat to Man City (A) – Won 6 of the next 8
• Defeat to Liverpool (A) – Won at home to Newcastle
• Defeat to Everton (A) – Won the next 4
• Defeat to Man City (H) – Won 5 of the next 6
• Defeat to Liverpool (H) – Won away at Villa

With the exception of the opening two matches, the only time Arsenal haven’t immediately responded to a defeat with victory was the 3-2 loss at Old Trafford. On that occasion they followed the result up with an even worse performance against Everton, before embarking on a run of just one defeat in 11 Premier League matches.

This is the sign of character and mental resilience, the kind that is now more valuable than ever as the side seek to right the wrongs of Monday and put the record straight against a Brighton side in the midst of a torrid run.

A lot of this is down to the players, although the manager’s role is undisputed. It’s his mindset throughout the season that has been stringently focused on the matters within Arsenal’s control, and nothing else. No outside noise, no being swept up in talk of top four favourites or opposition sides’ form. Nothing.

Once the game is done, win or lose, there is a swift change to what can be done to improve in time for the next game. So far it’s helped Arsenal return to winning ways in quick time, and that is precisely what is needed again here.