Arsenal midfielder Andrey Arshavin was delighted with the way he helped the defensive department in last Sunday’s game against Manchester United, at the Emirates.

Writing on his official website, the Russia International started by explaining that the game was no different than the ones the Gunners drew or lost recently as they enjoyed plenty of possession and created a number of good chances in the final third.

On the second half, the 29-year old added that the Red Devils needed to come forward to get something out of the game knowing that Chelsea were so close in the table but Arsenal’s brave defending made sure that they failed to find the equalising goal.

And on his personal game and the way he helped the defensive department, the Russian concluded by saying that he did well after being more aware of his defensive duties, made some nice tackles and was delighted with the positive comments of the fans after the game.

After the 1-0 win, Arshavin said:

This match was important for both teams. It’s a crucial match every year. Besides, Manchester United feel Chelsea’s breath on their neck, striving to seize the first spot.

I think that this game wasn’t much different from the previous games of Arsenal. As always, we possessed the territorial advantage, kept the ball under control, sending many dangerous lobbed balls during the first half.

We had some good chances. It’s usually our opponent’s counterattacks that pose a threat. But their counterattacks didn’t turn out in the first half. Perhaps, one can only point out their threats from corners.

In the second half, the game evolved differently. Our rival began to possess the ball. They were losing. They had to go forward. As I said, Chelsea is coming after them. They had to score.

Therefore, we focused on defending our goal during the last ten minutes of the match. I am glad that we didn’t allow them to score. I’m happy that today we managed to get this win.

It happened that I paid more attention to playing defense in this game. This clash turned out in such a way that I had to play according to the situation.

My tackles? Well, yes! They turned out great today. I’m glad that the fans appreciated them, I suppose that my sliding tackles came out just fine.