Arteta hails the Gunners’ character

MIKEL Arteta insisted Arsenal's angst-ridden progress to the Uefa Champions League semifinals proved they have the character to cope with the mounting pressure of their bid to end a six-year trophy drought.

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Arteta’s side survived an anxious quarterfinal second leg against Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday as they held on for a goalless draw that secured a 1-0 aggregate victory.

The Gunners were well below their best at the Emirates Stadium, but Sporting could not take advantage as Geny Catamo went closest for the visitors with a first-half volley that smacked off the post.

It was the latest in a growing list of spluttering displays from Arsenal, who have lost three of their last five games in all competitions, winning just once in that period.

But Arteta is adamant Arsenal's ability to grind out yet another vital result, despite an ugly performance, showed their spirit and desire remain strong amid criticism of their perceived mental weakness.

“We are not perfect, we recognise that, but there is value in what the players have done,” said Arteta, whose club face Atletico Madrid in the semifinals.

“My message was gratitude for the effort they put in.