Arsenal take on AC Milan at the San Siro tonight knowing that no English side have beaten the seven-times European champions on their own ground,. The Italian giants thrashed Manchester United 3-0 at the stadium in last season's semi-final.
But Arsenal recorded a famous victory at the San Siro, against Internazionale, in 2003, and that gives Wenger further belief that his current side can give a good account of themselves.
The Gunners were held to a 0-0 draw by the Rossoneri in London two weeks ago, and Wenger said ahead of the return: "We are a young side – the life of this team started two years ago. In that time, we have been to the Bernabeu, Juventus and the Champions League final against Barcelona. We are used to playing in big pressure and in big atmosphere."
Wenger stressed that rather than attempting to stiifle the Italian giants, Arsenal would be playing their own game tonight.
"We have nothing to protect, but know we want to score goals," he said. "Here we know we have to do both – to defend and attack like in any normal game which we want to win."
Recalling the occasion when he master-minded an Arsenal victory in the San Siro, when his team beat Milan's city rivals Inter in great style back in November 2003, winning 5-1, Wenger revealed: "It is a big inspiration because we had to make a big score – and we made it.
"We are highly focused and the team spirit is very high."
Fit-again striker Robin van Persie has travelled with the squad to Milan, and is expected to be on the bench tonight.
