FC Twente 0-2 Arsenal: William Gallas helps Gunners breathe easier

William Gallas and Emmanuel Adebayor last night began to pay Arsene Wenger back for letting him down as they helped steal a victory for Arsenal's youth corps.

The Champions League first leg qualifier ended Steve McClaren's hopes of a first step back along the path to redemption, and left Wenger paying tribute to his youngsters, forced into action by crippling injury problems.

He said: "They stood up. We were so young in the middle of the park and it was an important match for this club, but I have confidence in them. They paid me back very well."

Gallas' lack of leadership qualities was a crucial factor as Arsenal's season collapsed in the aftermath of Eduardo's horror injury last term, while Adebayor's summer flirtation with Barcelona and AC Milan had added to the doubts swirling around the Emirates.

With 17-year-old Aaron Ramsey partnering Brazilian Denilson, 20, in central midfield and Swiss 21-year-old Johan Djourou played alongside captain Gallas, Wenger again showed faith in youth.

In addition Theo Walcott started, while 16-year-old Jack Wilshere was on the bench.

Gallas bundled the ball into the net off the inside of his leg and said: "It was not my best goal but it was important. At half-time the boss told us to be patient and it would come."

Robin van Persie's low free-kick into the box was allowed to reach Gallas and his apologetic prod proved enough to propel the ball over the line.

It gave Wenger's side an undeserved but vital advantage and when Adebayor converted Walcott's low cross nine minutes from time the Gunners had a comfortable lead to take into the second leg in a fortnight.

Read Martin Lipton's full match report: Lucky Gunners are rescued by Will (Gallas) power

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