Mikel on club unity at pivotal stage of the season

Heading into the home straight of the season, Mikel Arteta has commended the progress shown across the club.

"We certainly [on track] because you feel a lot of things around the club and it’s not only the men's first team," said our head coach during his pre-Luton press conference. 

He particularly noted the recent silverware won by the club as a point of inspiration - as our women's side triumphed over Chelsea on Easter Sunday to win back-to-back Conti Cups. 

"What the women did at the weekend made us so proud and it’s so important as well because we really are encouraging them to embrace the space that they fully deserve. They’re doing incredibly well. 

"It’s the same with the academy and the same with the supporters, with the unity we have as a club of what we want to project from that sense. There are a lot of good things happening, but we want, and we need, to aim for much more than that."

With a handful of games yet to play and an opportunity to lift both the Premier League and Champions League trophy still in our sights, Arteta says that the team is relishing this chance. 

"This is where we want to be. Now we want to take this opportunity and make it happen. We work every single day with enthusiasm and passion to make it happen and enjoy the moment as well. 

"I see the team really flowing and they are really excited about playing these games and that's what our drive has to be to the end of the season."

The boss is making sure to appreciate the moment too, with each game presenting a fresh challenge. 

"I’m really excited. It's always like that when you look back in October and you feel the necessity to win and be there and it's not going to change from now until the end. 

"Obviously, the end is coming. Nine games is still a lot and I just embrace the moment, go game by game and make sure we are fully prepared for tomorrow to perform well."