Kolasinac proves sound value in transfer market

Sead Kolasinac celebrating his equaliser in Arsenal's 2-1 win over Swansea on Saturday. The Bosnian left wing-back arrived in the summer on a free transfer from German club Schalke and has made an impact.
Sead Kolasinac celebrating his equaliser in Arsenal's 2-1 win over Swansea on Saturday. The Bosnian left wing-back arrived in the summer on a free transfer from German club Schalke and has made an impact. PHOTO: REUTERS

LONDON • Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes his side have proven some doubters wrong after coming from behind to beat Swansea 2-1 in the Premier League on Saturday.

It was their third straight victory after conceding first, following games against Everton (5-2) and Norwich (2-1 in the League Cup).

Last season, the Gunners managed comeback wins just twice in the league.

"Again we have showed the mental strength to come back and win the game," said the Frenchman, who tasted victory in his 800th Premier League game.

"I'm convinced that we have proved people wrong at Everton, Norwich and today, and that can only make the team stronger."

Aaron Ramsey's winner after Sead Kolasinac had cancelled out Sam Clucas' first-half goal gave the club some much-needed cheer after shareholder protests at Thursday's annual general meeting.

They have won their last 13 games at the Emirates Stadium in all competitions, their longest winning run since the move in 2006.

"It was difficult in the first half but we stuck at it," said Ramsey. "We have quality players. I'm delighted we won and kept our 100 per cent home record."

Kolasinac's performance also gave Wenger - often criticised for his unwillingness to splurge on players - reason to suggest that there are still bargain buys around.

The Bosnian left wing-back arrived in the summer on a free transfer from Schalke and has made an impact. Saturday saw the 24-year-old score his third goal for Arsenal before setting up the winner.

"Since he has arrived, he has convinced everyone that he is a good signing," Wenger said. "When you see the quality of his performance today, you can see there are still some good deals to make out here.

"Kolasinac was decisive today... He has the natural qualities that suit his position as a wing-back, first that as a defender, he is more offensive. And secondly, because he has the body power in his game that you absolutely need in the league."

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 30, 2017, with the headline Kolasinac proves sound value in transfer market. Subscribe