Per Mertesacker delighted with response to criticism

Per Mertesacker has praised his in-form Arsenal teammates for the way they have responded to criticism this season.

Seven successive victories have moved the Gunners up to second in the Premier League table, and after being in the headlines for the wrong reasons due to their early-season struggles and Champions League exit, Mertesacker is delighted to be back on track.

"I am delighted with how the team responded to the criticism that came our way," the German defender told reporters.

"We are in a good position now [but at the start] we suffered a lot of injuries to players who were amazing last season, so we had to replace them with youngsters.

"But there was always good energy because they proved they can deliver good performances for the team and that raised everyone's level. I am delighted with the team's performances throughout the year."

Arsenal return to action with a trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley on Saturday.