Arsenal match-winner Alexandre Lacazette reveals what has changed at Emirates as Gunners home in on top four spot
Alexandre Lacazette has hailed the transformation in atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium after Arsenal beat Newcastle 2-0.
The Frenchman was brought in by compatriot Arsene Wenger towards the end of his time in north London in what was a period of turmoil for the Gunners, as fans turned on the legendary manager.
But Unai Emery’s arrival in the summer breathed fresh life into the north London club, with the Gunners putting together a 22-game unbeaten streak earlier in the season.
Their latest win saw Arsenal move back up to third place after a blip – and move into contention for Champions League qualification.
AS IT HAPPENED: Arsenal stroll to victory against Newcastle
READ MORE: Arsenal beat Newcastle thanks to Lacazette, Ramsey goals
And at the business end of the season, Lacazette believes the now-raucous home atmosphere can steer them into Europe’s elite competition.
“I can feel the difference from last season,” the 27-year-old said. “Now we may go to the Champions League.
“We are more confident (now), everybody knows what we have to do. When you win a lot of games in a row, of course there is a lot of confidence.
“They (the fans) did their job, they helped us as much as possible to go to third place.”
The Arsenal striker bagged the second goal, a lovely lob over Martin Dubravka, after Aaron Ramsey opened the scoring in the first half.
His imperious form alongside striker partner Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has helped propel the Gunners to where they are.
And Lacazette has hailed his strike partner – who assisted the Frenchman’s goal.
He said: “I think we are important for the team, like the other players but Auba scores many goals.
“I try to do the same and help him score as many goals as he can. We have to score a lot of goals to win and why not go to the Champions League?
“I would like to score a lot of goals away. But if at the end we win, it is more important for the team and for the club.
“We work every day to be at third place, now we are. We have to work to stay in this position.”
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