‘Small details make this squad special’

Per Mertesacker believes his and Theo Walcott’s post-match celebration is one of many small details that “make this squad special”.

The vice-captain and his Arsenal team-mate traditionally celebrate big victories by jumping and bumping backs on the pitch.

Mertesacker says it came about spontaneously, but believes it highlights the tight bond the Gunners squad have.

“I have no idea how that came about, it is just a small idea and we have just put it into practice, like a good habit,” he told Arsenal Player.

“It reminds us always that [games are] hard work, but we enjoy ourselves, we enjoy playing together and trust each other.

“Small details makes this squad a special one. We are looking forward to having some good celebrations after the game.”

Mertesacker has been impressed with Walcott’s emergence as a central striker, and says he will cause major problems for opposing centre backs.

“It is a different position that what he played before on the wing,” said Mertesacker. “In the centre he is always one against two, so he needs to find his way and his spaces and the pockets where he can be dangerous.

“That will always be more in behind [the defence], forcing [the opposition] to go back because they will always be scared, if Theo plays up front, of the space in behind.”