Arsene Wenger has praised the fighting spirit of his Arsenal players after they fought back to come from behind and claim victory against Anderlecht on Wednesday night.

Arsenal entered the Champions League tie under pressure to put on a performance after coming under fire for making a slow start to the new season.

Both sides struggled through the first half with chances few and far between and it looked like the Gunners would be punished for a lack of creativity when Andy Najar put the home side ahead on 71 minutes.

However, Wenger’s men responded well and showed incredible character to keep their European campaign on track with two late goals.

Left-back Kieran Gibbs netted the equaliser on 89 minutes with a volley at the back post before Lukas Podolski bagged the winner from close range with 91 minutes on the clock after coming off the bench.

The victory keeps Arsenal on track to progress from the group stage for the 12th consecutive season as they sit in second with six points, three adrift of leaders Borussia Dortmund.

Wenger said: “We kept going and scored two good goals. We had the spirit. It was vital for us to have the chance to qualify.

“We are in a strong position now because Galatasaray and Anderlecht have only one point.

“It’s down to us to win our home games and we are through.”