Wenger: We have to fight

Cape Town - Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has said his side have to show fight following Sunday's 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Young striker Marcus Rashford stole the headlines once again with a brace for the Red Devils, scoring twice in four minutes before Danny Welbeck replied against his old team to hand the Gunners a lifeline before halftime.

Ander Herrera then added a third, but Mesut Ozil ensured a nervy finish at Old Trafford with a late goal. However, United held on for the victory, dealing Arsenal's title hopes a blow. Wenger now believes that his side must stand up and be counted following the damaging defeat.

"When we were on top of the game we conceded two quick goals from crosses," said Wenger.

"Overall, I think we had the first chance, we had a lot of the ball and we were caught on two crosses in the first half and in the second half on the counter-attack because we went after the game.

"They've scored the goals, we have to look at ourselves. What is for sure, our spirit and commitment was 100 per cent there but it is difficult to win away from home when you concede three goals.

"They stopped us a lot with little fouls and that was very frustrating, apart from that I could not question our desire or commitment at all."

The Frenchman refused to rule out Arsenal's title challenge, believing that his side must now respond quickly when they face Swansea City at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.

"We lost three points but you have to show that you are up for a fight and give absolutely everything in our next game, things can change quickly but only if you keep going and keep believing," he added.

"We are in a fight where we can show that we have great character and a great mental response on Wednesday night. That's what we want to do.

"I'm very disappointed but I'm ready for a fight on Wednesday night."