Mikel Arteta insists there are mitigating factors behind Arsenal's poor Premier League season ahead of Sunday's clash against Newcastle United.
Arteta is under increasing pressure as he takes his team to St James' Park, with the Gunners floundering in 11th place in the top flight.
The manager's chances of salvaging the season rest with the Europa League, and his Arsenal side will look to overturn a 2-1 deficit when they face Villarreal in the home leg of their semi-final on Thursday.
Lifting the trophy in Europe's second-tier competition would earn the North London side a place in next season's Champions League - and would put gloss on an otherwise disappointing campaign.
Read more on mirror.co.uk