Mikel Arteta explains ‘gut feeling’ selection that paid off in win over Atletico Madrid

Bukayo Saka scores Arsenal’s winner against Atletico Madrid (John Walton/PA) (PA Wire)

Arteta said he had never experienced such a ‌raucous build-up and atmosphere both inside and outside the stadium during his time at the Emirates, and that his side now had the bit between their teeth again.

Arsenal's season appeared to be faltering a few weeks ago but having overcome Atletico ⁠and seen Premier League title rivals Manchester City stumble the previous night, the North London side are within touching distance of a first English title since 2004 and potential European glory.

"It's great. Everybody can feel a shift in energy and belief in everything," Arteta said.

"Let's use it in the right way and understand that the margins and the difficulty of what we are trying to achieve is huge, but we have the ability and conviction today, that is for sure."

Arsenal's midfield engine, Declan ‌Rice, also said the side had regained their momentum.

"We have kind of turned a corner ​again. We went through a stage where we weren't performing at our best. We ‌were a bit sloppy in our play, ⁠but we have found a new way to play again," Rice told Amazon Prime.

"When you ⁠have got confidence in football it is everything. I know everyone is focused."

Rice also underscored the longer-term progression Arsenal have made ‌and the importance of their ​league game against his former side West Ham ‌United at the weekend.

"We have kept building - we ​have kept pushing each other. This competition and the Premier League. We have gone full throttle," Rice said.

"Sunday now is a massive one."

additional reporting by Reuters