Arsenal‘s head coach Unai Emery was quick to defend Sead Kolašinac after the thrilling 2-2 draw against rivals Manchester United.

Emery instead instilled confidence for the Bosnian, reflecting on his overall performance rather than focussing on one miscalculated move.

Reflecting on the match, Emery stated,

“I am not frustrated. At the end Kolašinac had his head looking down and I said to Sead you had a very good match and you gave us a lot of good circumstances where we could have scored with your actions – these things can happen in defence. These things can happen and above all be positive and learn with this action.”

The Bosnian has been an integral part of Emery’s squad this season, playing as an left wing back in the 3-4-3 system. He has now settled nicely into the squad after a difficult first season.

Emery’s word come after Arsenal were held to a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford by Manchester United in what was considered Arsenal’s best chance at winning on rival turf. Kolašinac’s mistake allowed Jesse Lingard to equalize just after 71 seconds.

Arsenal extended their unbeaten record to 20 games with their last defeat coming against Chelsea in an early season clash. Emery was more focused on maintaining his unbeaten record rather than criticizing his players’ performances, unlike Mourinho. He said,

“When we are winning it was a good moment but they equalised very quickly then we got up after their two goals. In the second half our players worked to find a way to win. I think we were close, more than them, to do the third goal but De Gea saved two or three times with good action.”

With a busy festive season approaching, these comments seem smartly worded.

Arsenal welcome Huddersfield town next at the Emirates on Saturday, where a win would strengthen their place in the race for a top 4 finish with London rivals Tottenham and Chelsea. As for Manchester United, the welcome relegation threatened Fulham to Old Trafford where they look to end their 4 match-winless run in the Premier League.