Manager Arsene Wenger apologised to Arsenal's supporters on Friday for the abject 4-0 midweek defeat at AC Milan in their Champions League first knockout round first leg. "The fans were absolutely fantastic in Milan and we can only say sorry," the Frenchman told reporters on the eve of the FA Cup fifth-round visit to Sunderland (1715 GMT). "Tomorrow there will be another fight and we want them to be on our side. I am sure they will be," added Wenger. "Defeat never gets out of your system because you take it with you until the last day of your life. But when you love competition you always strive for the next one and prove that you are ready for a new fight." Arsenal may be reeling after suffering their worst defeat in European competition on Wednesday but Wenger said he now wanted to see a reaction from everyone in the camp. "You can find 100 explanations for the fact we had a poor performance and an off day," he said. "I believe for us, for the rest of the season, it is important not to dwell on that too much, focus on the next performance, respond in a positive way and ensure we have the mental qualities to be at this club. "We have to ensure straight away we are capable of responding, that is the real test." (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter: @AO_Sports)
