Arsenal manager says they can beat Jose Mourinho's Chelsea

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists that his woeful record against Chelsea’s manager Jose Mourinho will have no effect on the result of the Sunday, April 26 English Premier League clash.

The Frenchman has not won against the Portuguese in 12 matches with Mourinho winning seven of those matches while the remaining five have finished draw.

But Wenger does not believe that history will play any port in the clash saying that the Gunners have been close to beaten Mourinho’s Chelsea before.

“I think we have not always lost in 12 attempts. We have been close,” Wenger said in a press conference ahead of the game.

“Having said that, the result on Sunday will just be down to the performance on the day. We are on a good run and we have an opportunity at home to beat them and we want to take it.

“We have a good run of form and good belief and solidarity. We have passed many tests recently when we were questioned. We have another test on Sunday that we want to pass.

“Chelsea's strengths are they have been very efficient on counter attacks and set-pieces as well. We have to nullify their strengths.”

His former prodigy Cesc Fabregas is expected to play in the game, making it his first appearance at the Emirate after his switch to rivals Chelsea.

A hostile reception from the home crowd is expected for the former Arsenal captain, but Wenger wants him to be respected.

"I want every player to be respected, and Cesc Fabregas when he comes to the Emirates on Sunday to be respected like he deserves," he said.