Nacho Monreal playing for Arsenal
Monreal has started 26 Premier League games this season. Getty

Arsenal left-back Nacho Monreal has revealed that manager Arsene Wenger "was a bit angry" at half-time during the 1-1 draw against Manchester United on Sunday 17 May after the Gunners played their "worst 45 minutes" of the season.

The North London side visited the Premier League giants in search of a victory to consolidate third position following a disappointing home defeat against Swansea last week.

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But Ander Herrera gave United a deserved lead in the 30<sup>th minute of the game to put Louis van Gaal's side temporarily in third place and automatic entry to the Champions League.

Monreal said the manager was angry at half-time but inspired them to react and secure a vital point after Theo Walcott's deflected cross-shot gave them a late equaliser.

"We know that we didn't play very well in the first half, it was probably the worst 45 minutes we have played this season. The boss was angry, which is normal and we knew that we have another 45 minutes to fix it. In the second half we played much better than the first, we were lucky because we could score and draw the game. And we go home happy with the score," Morneal said.

"We didn't play well in the first half and the boss was a bit angry with our performance, but we knew we could make a difference. We played much better and drew the game, and almost won it as we had some chances. But the draw is good for us."

Meanwhile, the Spaniard has expressed his delight over the current season after becoming the first-choice ahead of Kieran Gibbs following a difficult last campaign at the Emirates Stadium.

Monreal, who started just 13 Premier League games last season, has indeed doubled the appearances during the current campaign.

"I am very happy. Last season unfortunately I didn't play enough and when I played, I didn't play well in truth. This season is completely different for me, I played in most of the games. I think I am playing well and I am very happy with my season."

And after his team all but secured third place, the Spanish left-back expressed his hopes to confirm their place in FA Cup history with a win against Aston Villa in the final on 30 May.

"We are lucky because we have two FA Cup finals in a row and we want to win the final, it will be a difficult game and I hope that we do it. But before then we have to win another game to finish in the top three and after we will think about the FA Cup."

Arsene Wenger FA Cup