Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has urged his side to channel their energy in the right way as they close in on a first Premier League title in 22 years. Speaking before Sunday's trip to West Ham, Arteta dismissed criticism from the 'celebration police' after he danced on the pitch following the Champions League semi-final win over Paris Saint-Germain.
The Gunners can move to within two points of leaders Manchester City if they win at the London Stadium, with City playing Brentford on Saturday. Arteta stressed the importance of focusing on the next game rather than looking ahead. 'We have to be there, and we have to be better than the opponent and win the game,' he said.
Arteta credited the squad's renewed spirit to Declan Rice's rallying cry after last month's defeat at the Etihad. 'That was the start of the sentence,' Arteta added. 'It's not done and we're more confident that we're going to do it.' The manager also noted the improvement of Viktor Gyökeres, Myles Lewis-Skelly's emergence in midfield, and Bukayo Saka's return to form as key factors.
Arsenal have won their last three league games, including a dramatic victory over Bournemouth, and are aiming to become only the sixth English club to win a league and European double. Arteta said: 'I think we're in a really good moment. The players feel confident and are really looking forward to playing on Sunday.'
