Arsene Wenger today urged Arsenal to relax and play without fear if they want to win the Premier League title after conceding his team had been feeling the pressure in recent weeks.
Wenger's men were knocked out of three cup competitions in quick succession in late February and March and they have stumbled in the race for the League, which remains their only chance of ending a trophy drought that has lasted since 2005.
Arsenal face Blackburn at Emirates Stadium tomorrow needing to close a five-point gap to the leaders Manchester United, although they do have a game in hand on Sir Alex Ferguson's side. "Since the start of the season this group has had a great focus so we have to be a bit more light-hearted because that has been missing a bit since Barcelona knocked us out of the Champions League," Wenger admitted.
"You feel in the recent games there was a weight on our shoulders a little bit. You want that focus but you want to be happy and to play without any special pressure. You have to be a bit light-hearted in your games, find a good mixture between the desire to play our way and having the focus to win the game. We need to play with joy, feel pressure-free and be happy to play. A happy player is a better player.
"We go into the final part of the season now and that's where the differences are made. We have an opportunity to do it now. Let's enjoy it and go for it."
Wenger is optimistic that Robin van Persie (knee), Nicklas Bendtner (ankle) and Aaron Ramsey (groin) will be fit to face Blackburn. All three players were due to have tests today.
Wenger also confirmed that Cesc Fabregas, Alex Song, Theo Walcott and Abou Diaby were available after injuries but he has not decided yet whether to risk them. Jens Lehmann played in the reserves in midweek but will probably not be involved.
Jack Wilshere is likely to be chosen again in midfield after shining for England recently.
The 19-year-old is the subject of a developing argument between his club and the FA regarding the European Under-21 Championships this summer.
Wilshere wants to play but Arsenal are thought to believe he needs to rest.
Wenger added: "We have to take care of the player."
