Arsene Wenger has defended his decision to make nine changes to his Arsenal side after they lost 4-2 to Nottingham Forest in the third round of the FA cup.

The Gunners boss left key players such as Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Alexandre Lacazette, out of the squad completely.

"We had a very difficult schedule, many players were on the edge and we play again on Wednesday [against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup], it was nearly impossible not to make it [changes].

"I can understand the selection is questioned but it would be an easy excuse, because we have eight or nine experienced international players on the pitch so we played with respect against a Championship side. That would be the wrong excuse.

"It's disappointing we lost, that's all I can say. Some days you have to say Nottingham Forest were better than us and that was the case.

"We have a big game on Wednesday so we have to focus on that now."