LONDON, October 7-Jack Wilshere admits Arsenal need to “make it count” in front of goal if they are to seriously challenge for silverware this season.
The Gunners have struggled to keep pace at the top of the Premier League standings this term, with Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to leaders Chelsea leaving them nine points adrift.
And while their Stamford Bridge capitulation marked only their first loss of the campaign, Arsene Wenger’s men have drawn four of their opening seven league fixtures, and Wilshere knows they need to be much better in the final third if they are to get their season back on track.
“At times we controlled the game and that is the difference, at this level when you are playing against a top-class team, when you are on top you have to really make it count,” said the England midfielder.
“We created a few half chances, but we never really made it count.
“You didn’t really see Cesc Fabregas or Diego Costa all game and then, all of a sudden, a 50-yard ball from Cesc put it on Costa’s foot and it is a great finish, and the game is over.
“We have played well, but at this level, against the top three in this league, when you are on top you need to make the opportunities count and if you don’t, then you are going to get punished.”