Published: 3 December, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

PER Mertesacker says Arsenal are “united and ready” for the busy winter period. 

The Gunners face Sunderland on Saturday, sparking a run of six games in December, including three in seven days over Christmas. They currently sit fourth in the Premier League, two points behind leaders Manchester City, and are now ready “to get serious”, according to Mertesacker. 

“The winter period is always important to put pressure on the other teams by doing well and by getting good results,” said the towering defender. “We want to get through to the knock-out stages of the Champions League and, in the upcoming league games, we will take it really seriously and not drop points any more. Top three or four is always a good position and obviously it’s tighter than last season, making it more interesting for everyone. We want to be involved until the end, that’s the target. 

“We’ve improved already from last season and that’s why we are looking forward to the next couple of weeks as they are defining weeks for the team. 

“How united can we be throughout the Premier League season and how consistent can we be? It’s a good challenge. We think we are well prepared. 

“We are very united,” added Mertesacker. “Now it’s time to prove we are capable of doing something. 

“Doing great things means winning something, and to do that you need to be consistent.”