Per Mertesacker limped off the pitch in the semi-final clash against Reading last week and is expected to be assessed by the medical staff today, but the centreback has put his personal woes behind him to celebrate the Gunners’ phenomenal feat of reaching Wembley for the fourth time in two seasons.

The 30-year-old was subjected to widespread criticism following his spineless interview after his side allowed Monaco to progress to the next stage of Champions League, but he now seems to have learnt the art of speaking to the press as he stated that it was a great achievement to have made a comeback from their howler in the grandest European football tournament to get closer to the Football Association Cup trophy.

“We are just delighted that we made it again. It is a little progress - it will be a great honour, back to back FA Cup wins. We have extended our season for one more week. We were knocked out of the Champions League and that was a big blow for us but after that we responded and it is a great achievement.

Let’s continue our great run. We can do what we want, we just wanted to win and do something fantastic for the team and the group.”

The World Cup winner also exhibited glimpses of class as he congratulated and consoled the Championship side admitting that they had done fantastically to keep the red and white shirts away from their goal. He also stated that the victory was not easy and added that it was a very tough game even though the two sides are separated by thirty six teams in two divisions.

“This was a really tough game and we knew it before, that they would fight for their lives and give absolutely everything to keep us away from their goal and they did it fantastically.”

Arsene Wenger was forced to take his captain off the pitch as he was seen struggling and the former German international admitted that the victory set him abuzz even though he twisted his ankle only minutes earlier. He also admitted his concerns over his potential ankle injury, but stood firm that it would not be too bad.

“I felt my ankle and had to come off,” he said. “I twisted my ankle but obviously I am delighted that we are back here again at Wembley and that is a fantastic achievement for this group for the second consecutive time. We are really proud. I have to assess my ankle first. Hopefully it is not too bad and I will be happy.

You can see everyone is absolutely happy and delighted. What can I say? I am a bit down but when the lads came in they were just delighted.”

Arsenal can be expected to have Gabriel Paulista partner Laurent Koscielny at the heart of the defense when they entertain Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium while their vice-captain is expected to feature on the sidelines.