Wenger laments lax defense

Arsene Wenger admits the lack of experience in his Arsenal defence proved costly as his team spurned the opportunity to give itself a glimmer of hope in the Premier League title race.

Wenger's side endured more misery at Britannia Stadium on Saturday as Stoke City hung on for a 3-2 victory to place fresh pressure on the Frenchman.

The Gunners trailed 3-0 at the half thanks to sloppy defense and Wenger, whose back four included 19-year-old Hector Bellerin, conceded the absence of key personnel affected his side.