With Arsenal very close to be mathematically out of the title race, defender Johan Djourou confessed he can archive his season with a smile after suffering no long-term injuries during the campaign.

After a serious knee injury damaged his progress last season, the Switzerland International enjoyed 32 starts for the Gunners this season and did a very good job at the heart of the defence, albeit some mistakes.

Speaking to Arsenal TV Online, the centre back explained that his objective this season was indeed to be consistent, play in as many games as possible and show that all injury problems are just a thing of the past.

He said:

That’s what you want to achieve, to be consistent and playing every game. That’s what happening at the moment so I’m very happy.

It was a hard season last season. Why it’s even greater is that things turned out that quickly. Because, you never know, a guy can come back from injury and not be the same. In my case, I think I came back stronger.

Every time you walk on the pitch, you have that adrenaline in you that say, ‘That’s it – it’s your time’. It’s a really special feeling to see all those people coming to watch you and support you. I know a lot of people who’d like to have that in their lives.

Meanwhile, right-back Emmanuel Eboue explained the Gunners should respect rivals Manchester United when the two teams meet on Sunday but added that they should play their normal football game and not be scared of the leaders of the Premier League.

Eboue said:

We need to respect them and play our football, don’t be scared. Play our football and we will see after the game.