Arsenal ace relished first taste of Spurs clashes

Monday, November 19, 2012
7:50 AM

Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has admitted that he now truly understands what playing in a north London derby is like.

Saturday was Cazorla’s first taste of a north London derby and, although he had played derbies in Spain, he admitted they were “not as intense”.

He added: “Everyone had been explaining to me that we had to win, that it was a derby, that there is so much rivalry.

“The main thing is that the fans were able to enjoy themselves and that, by the end of the game, they could be quite comfortable.

“It’s beautiful the way they have been with me ever since I arrived. It means a lot.”

Cazorla’s exploits may not yet have earned him a new nickname but he already has his own song among Arsenal supporters.

He said: “It makes me really happy that the fans show me so much affection. It’s lovely to hear.”