‘It was vital to maintain momentum’

Arsenal have historically struggled in November - but they look a much more resolute side going into Sunday’s north London derby at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners showcased their character to fight back from two goals behind against Ludogorets on Tuesday, and Granit Xhaka says that belief will stand them in good stead going into this weekend’s Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur.

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“We expected that kind of game,” the Switzerland midfielder said. “We knew that it would be difficult here, and that many teams have had big problems here in the past. In the first minutes we weren’t awake, but after that we came into the game better.

“The home and away games were very two different matches. It’s always different to play a team at home as opposed to away. Today Ludogorets played a very good match, but what’s important is that we won the game.

“It’s not just important for us players but for the whole club and for the fans. Keeping this momentum up ahead of Sunday was vital and of course we want to beat Tottenham.”