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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
John Cross

Mikel Arteta's message to Arsenal fans after Rapid Vienna thrashing and supporters' return

Mikel Arteta thanked the Arsenal fans for a “very special” night at the Emirates.

The 2,000 supporters allowed in cheered their team to a comfortable victory and despite the small number still whipped up an incredible atmosphere.

Gunners boss Arteta said: “It was very special, we had 2,000 but it felt like many more. It makes a huge difference and thanks to them for coming and supporting the team.

"The club has made such an effort to make sure today everything was set up in the right way so hopefully the fans had a good night, they were tremendous for us.

“The boys showed great energy and character on the pitch.

"The boys wanted it I could see from the start they wanted it, they were hurt from previous game they showed the attitude and desire that is required.

Delight for the Arsenal boss at full-time (PA)

“We were aggressive, we wanted to put the ball in the box we created chances. Now we have another one on Sunday.”

Man of the match Alexandre Lacazette scored a 25 yard screamer while Pablo Mari, Eddie Nketiah and Emile Smith-Rowe were also on target as Arsenal overwhelmed Rapid Vienna to record their fifth straight win in the competition.

It was Lacazette’s first goal in three months and the players clearly benefited from the support in the stadium.

Delight for the Frenchman (AFP via Getty Images)

Lacazette added: “It was amazing. We are so happy to see the fans, they really helped us in the game.

"Even in the bad moments they helped us play good.

“It’s really nice when the fans are behind us, it was not easy for me the last couple of weeks but to see the fans behind me and the team is really nice and I really enjoyed that.

“Tonight we wanted to enjoy and have the fifth win in a row, now we have time to focus for the derby and we will see on Sunday what the side is.”

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