Mikel Arteta says Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund Games Can Boost Arsenal Morale

Arsenal captain Mikel Arteta says the next two games against Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund can be a turning point in the Gunners campaign.

Following a 2-1 defeat to Swansea and a disappointing 3-3 Champions League draw to Anderlecht just before the international break, Arsene Wenger's side will host United on Saturday 22 November before their European home clash with Dortmund four days later.

Arteta admits the squad are currently feeling low morale but believes two back-to-back victories in the next big games can restore their confidence.

"We have two games against Manchester United and Dortmund at home and if we get the crowd with us from the start and get the results then it will be a very different story again," Arteta said to Arsenal official website.

"A week ago, after three wins in a row, the place was getting back to normal with everyone looking happy. Then after two disappointing results [morale is low].

"It is a roller coaster at the moment but we need to manage the emotion because this is a long-term situation and we need to be where we want to be in April and May, so let's be patient," said Arteta.

Having missed the last Premier League game against Swansea, the captain is expected to return to action against Louis van Gaal's side to help his teammates both on the pitch and also in terms of lifting their spirits.

"For me, the most important thing is to lead with confidence and remind the players how good they are," said Arteta.

"When you see some faces with disappointment and doubts, it is not good. They are players of the top level and after one, two or three performances it is natural - you get doubts, you are not happy with yourself, you get a bit down.

"But we cannot allow that to happen here. It is very demanding to play three or four times in 10 days and bad periods are going to affect the team. So you need everyone on their toes and ready to fight."