When you play against a Spanish team, especially Madrid, it is quite an open game. There was time and space to play. They are very good going forward but because they go forward a lot, they open up at the back.

We're not big-headed, but when you play for Arsenal, every time you enter a competition you are trying to win it, and that's what we hope to do.

We have a lot of guys having to play in different positions, especially at the back. They're not used to it and they're doing the best they can. We know that and can't expect any more from them.

Vieira was a great player, very physical and helped us in the middle of the park, but we've been working hard on this aspect of the game. We've filled in with young players who have done well but everyone needs time to grow, develop and learn. I've been here for a while and know that the physical side of the Premiership is a big part of it.

Of course 2-2 would be a good result for both teams,

Newcastle played quite defensively, but we had to keep playing and get through in the last 20 minutes, and we managed to do it.