Arsene Wenger launched a stout defence of his Arsenal team's achievements and his managerial policy ahead of their Premier League game against Blackpool on Sunday.

Arsenal have come under criticism following the 0-0 draw against Blackburn, which dimmed their hopes of overtaking Man Utd at the top of the EPL. But Wenger there is still a chance they could win the league. "We give our maximum and you have to accept people's opinion. You are judged only on your last game. We want to be judged on Sunday on what we do, that means a good performance."

Two months ago Arsenal were chasing four trophies, but lost the League Cup final to Birmingham, FA Cup quarter-final to Man Utd and Champions League round of 16 tie to Barca.

But Wenger insisted all's not lost yet. "We want to fight until the last game of the season. This is a crucial moment where we have to trust these young players."