Arsenal fans react to Reiss Nelson's first Premier League start vs Southampton

And they were well worth their equaliser when Charlie Austin came off the bench to level at 2-2 17 minutes from time before Welbeck's late victor.

"Clearly we have got talented players, you saw that today".

After leading twice, two late red cards and and a surprisingly loud roar at the final whistle, there was certainly entertainment at the Emirates on Sunday despite the empty seats.

"My mind is set on the next game, doing well in those games".

Arsenal started the match with four wins on the trot fully expecting to make it five on a wet afternoon in front of swaths of empty seats and a terrible atmosphere. He had gotten on the end of a quick interchange on the edge of Arsenals box to score, making it a record four goals in four meetings with their north London rivals.

The reigning champions now trail Tottenham and Liverpool by 10 points with just six games left to salvage a place in the Champions League next season.

Long looked like he had restored the deadlock and the away support had a moment's joy only to see the flag up.

Another England World Cup hopeful was heavily involved as the injury-ravaged Welbeck netted his first league goals since September.

The 18-year-old forward Reiss Nelson made his first Premier League start for Arsenal and was given a rude welcome from Southampton midfielder Dusan Tadic, who was fortunate to escape a booking for his risky tackle in the opening minutes.

At that point Wenger abandoned all pretence of tactical shape and defensive nous by simply ordering his side to attack to win the game.

"We're disappointed we didn't get something out of the game but for me in terms of the performance I'm more than happy with that".

"Every game you win makes you stronger, it's important that you keep your run going".

He'd get his goal in the 81st minute, stabbing home a header at the back post from an Iwobi cross.

"The advice I'd give my youngster self is to always believe in what you're doing".

Southampton boss Mark Hughes, speaking to Sky Sports: "We have hard games coming up, we know that but we have to show qualities and strength in our mindset".

Southampton's Jack Stephens was sent off in stoppage time for a clash with Gunners substitute Jack Wilshere - who should also have been dismissed according to Southampton manager Mark Hughes.