Arsenal 's unique celebrations in the changing room with the iconic club clock are born out of a decision to make away days feel more homely, it has been revealed.
The Gunners responded to Manchester City's win on Saturday night by securing the three points at Fulham on Sunday afternoon. It ensures they remain five points clear at the top, but questions were asked when the squad were pictured celebrating the win alongside the famous clock.
It has now been reported by the Daily Mail that it is part of a plan within the squad to make away grounds feel more like the Emirates, where they have only lost once this term. Alongside the clock, pictures of the Arsenal badge and posters of the squad have also been utilised.
The iconic clock was part of the club's former ground, Highbury, for more than 70 years. 13 years ago a larger replica of the clock was installed at Emirates, with the original located outside the stadium in north London.
Five of the team's remaining 11 league fixtures are away from home - with some particularly challenging games to come. Mikel Arteta's next assignment on the road will be at Liverpool in April - a ground they have not enjoyed themselves at in recent seasons.
Losses at this stage, especially with City attempting to chase them down, could be crucial. Liverpool, despite their struggles this term, have only lost once at home in the league and are a difficult proposition at Anfield. The following week they make the short trip to West Ham.
Arsenal must travel to City on April 26 in a game that could decide the destination of the title. The defending champions are the only team to win at the Emirates this term and have already beaten the Gunners on their own patch in the FA Cup.
A trip to Newcastle, who are another side to enjoy a sensational home crowd, is still on their radar. The Magpies could well be fighting for a place in the top four, which would add to the magnitude of the team. St James' Park is also a venue Arsenal lost at last term.
The last away game for the Gunners is the penultimate clash of the season when they will travel to Nottingham Forest, who could still be trying to avoid relegation. Arsenal made light work of Fulham on Sunday afternoon, securing a 3-0 win at Craven Cottage - scoring all three of their goals in the first-half.
