Arsenal vs Fulham: Bernd Leno urges teammates to respond following heavy Liverpool defeat

Arsenal face Fulham three days after being thrashed by Liverpool

Bernd Leno is pleased that Arsenal have a game so quickly after their heavy defeat against Liverpool and says they “need to win” against Fulham.

Liverpool continued to pick up points at the top of the Premier League table as they thrashed Unai Emery’s side 5-1 at Anfield, Arsenal's third defeat in December.

Arsenal had taken the lead 11 minutes into the game through Ainsley Maitland-Niles, but soon found themselves behind after a quickfire double from Roberto Firmino. Sadio Mane and Mo Salah soon added to the Gunners' misery and highlighted the work that still needs to be done for Arsenal to compete at the top.

Leno, however, believes Tuesday's clash against Fulham can not come soon enough and is urging his side to respond to their heavy defeat.

“It’s good we have a game so soon because we are very disappointed. Football can change quickly and we hope that we can win again on Tuesday.

“It’s the first game of the year and we want to beat Fulham at home. We need to win.”

Arsenal missed a number of first team players against Liverpool with Rob Holding, Hector Bellerin, Mezut Ozil and Nacho Monreal all missing but Leno refuses to use this as an excuse.

“I don’t think that was the difference. As a team we made too many mistakes. We have enough quality, even when players are injured.

“They are a top team and they capitalise on every mistake and turn it into a big chance.”