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Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has urged his side to show their Premier League challenge has not fizzled out when they travel to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The Gunners produced a composed display to beat Borussia Dortmund at the Emirates in the Champions League on Wednesday, putting them through to the round of 16 with a match to spare. And Mertesacker called on his colleagues to use that "solid" victory as a springboard for further victories and improve on Arsenal's current eighth place in the table. "We were very convincing [against Dortmund]," he said. We have to show character, because we have to sharpen up in the Premier League as well. Saturday is a good chance to show to everyone that we are still alive. "We have secured football in the Champions League [knockout stages], and that gives us a life -- but that has nothing to do with the Premier League. "Dortmund are a good example of that, because they are already through but they have suffered a lot in the Bundesliga. We have to come back in the Premier League, and that is the next target." Midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who came close to a spectacular goal against Dortmund when his long-range effort cannoned back off the bar, also said the Dortmund display had lifted the mood. "Wins always relieve pressure. When we win, everyone's happy," he said. "The players, the manager, the staff and the fans are happy. "There is a long way to go in this competition and the league. We need to try to back this win up with some good results in the future." But Arsenal have been hit by news that Jack Wilshere has been ruled out of action for three months after having surgery on his ankle. Wilshere, 22, sustained damage to ligaments in his left ankle during Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United when he was tackled by defender Paddy McNair, and missed the Dortmund game. Arsenal said in a statement that the midfielder's operation had been "successful" and added: "Jack will now commence his injury rehabilitation programme with the Arsenal medical team. "Everyone at the club wishes Jack a speedy recovery, and looks forward to seeing him back on the pitch as soon as possible."
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