Football
Kevin Palmer 9y

Arsene Wenger concerned that Arsenal players could be fatigued for FA Cup

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted he has concerns that his squad are suffering from end of season fatigue ahead of the FA Cup final against Aston Villa on May 30.

After the Gunners failed to score for a third successive game at their Emirates Stadium home in a 0-0 draw against Sunderland on Tuesday, Wenger conceded that his players had lost the momentum they built-up during an eight-game winning run in the Premier League a few weeks ago.

When asked whether his side could rediscover their winning touch ahead of he Wembley date with Tim Sherwood's Villa, Wenger responded: "It is a little bit of a concern, but there's nearly two weeks to go. We have some time to prepare and to recover. I think we will do that."

Wenger went on to suggest his side's long campaign had taken a toll on some of his players and he hinted he may make changes to his lineup for their final Premier League game against West Bromwich Albion on Sunday with an eye on the FA Cup final.

When asked whether his players were jaded, Wenger offered this answer: "You could see that some players are a bit. We played our 56th game of the season tonight and some players have given a lot.

"We still have time to recover for Sunday and prepare well for the FA Cup final. What is important now is that we win on Sunday. We want to finish on a high in front of our own fans and give them the win they deserve."

While some of his players may be tired, Wenger stressed the likes of Theo Walcott and Jack Wilshere will be encouraged to join up with the England squad if they are selected after both endured truncated seasons with Arsenal due to injury.

"[Those] players don't need a rest," he added. "Theo has been out for a year, Jack for six months because he played his last game in November. They don't need a rest. They can go with England, it's no problem. Of course I'd welcome it."

Wenger also confirmed that striker Danny Welbeck is pushing to make a first team return for the West Bromwich Albion game this weekend.

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