Wilshere responds to 'horrible' Deeney comments

Wilshere took exception to the comments from the Hornets skipper after the match, denying the fact that Arsenal players lack character.

The 25-year-old midfielder said: "As a player if you're attitude is questioned, it's horrible. I look around this team and you can't question our character. People try and put us down, they always have. I don't think the comments were justified.

"When we look back at the Watford game (in which Arsenal gave up a 1-0 lead) we look back at ourselves and what we did wrong. I don't think we can look back and question our character.

"I am sure individually players are disappointed (with Deeney's remarks) — no one wants to hear those comments. All we can do is bounce back with a good performance."

When asked if the comments hurt the players, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said: "Yes, but I know who my players really are. In the last seven games before Watford we had six wins and one draw. After that, the comments, that's part of the modern game, you have to realise that. I love my players and I trust their strength of character to respond quickly."