Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger praised his team for their gutsy performance in gaining a point at the home of the champions Chelsea.

His Gunners team surprised many with a performance full of determination and flair during an excellent first half when they could have scored through a number of chances they fashioned, including Aaron Ramsey hitting the post after a driving run through the heart of the defence.

Wenger, whose side were humiliated 4-0 by Liverpool at Anfield during their previous away match in the Premier League, were far sharper and more committed in the sun at Stamford Bridge on Sunday lunchtime.

Speaking afterwards Wenger said: “It was a game of quality and intensity all over the pitch and we battled well.

“It’s a deserved point. We could have won.

“It was important not to lose today as well. People forget that we beat Chelsea in the FA Cup Final.

“What changed after [losing to] Liverpool is how you respond to your next game.”

When asked what his views were on David Luiz’s sending off after showing his studs to Sead Kolasinac late on in front of the dugouts Wenger replied: ”I think even Luiz would accept it was too strong. It was excessive force.

“After that it is up to the referee.”

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte gave his verdict of the draw, adding: “Both teams tried to win and had chances to score.

“I think we started the game very well then suffered in the middle of the first half.

“Sometimes you forget Arsenal is one of the top six teams in England [they are] a strong team, a really good team.”

When asked if he believed £70 million man Alvar Morata was dominated by Arsenal’s centre-backs including an impressive performance from Shkodran Mustafi, he responded by saying: “In my opinion Morata played a really good game. I’m happy for his performance.”