Post by Taxigirl on Nov 4, 2003 17:59:56 GMT
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger claims it will not be a financial disaster for the North London club if they fail to qualify for the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League.
The Frenchman is still convinced The Gunners can progress in the competition, despite a dreadful start, and is backing his side to overcome any nerves when they entertain Dynamo Kiev on Wednesday at Highbury.
"The important thing is to play well," he maintained. "I believe we have only played three games and didn't make the best of our performances.
"I feel we got out the minimum what we deserved. I think we were unlucky in nearly every game.
"We have mental strength and the quality to do it. I think we have been consistent since the beginning of the season in our performances.
"I'm completely relaxed personally but it's important the players are, I'll take care of that and it's just a focus on the quality of our performance that is the best way to deal with your nerves.
"We are not out of the Champions League yet and, financially, it would not be a disaster.
"Any income could help you and me, always, so that is normal, but it is not that the club would collapse if we don't go through.
"I still think we can turn things round tomorrow and the team still have a bright future in the Champions League.
"I don't think we have been too defensive. I think the team, of course, is dependent on Thierry Henry, but we're dependent on big performances.
"When the team performs well, Thierry has more chances to score goals so let's focus on having a good team performance as who scores is less important."
