Lukas Fabianski says the criticism Arsenal's players have copped this season has only brought the squad closer together.

"What is around outside does not affect us, but maybe we are even more motivated because of that," the Polish goalkeeper said. "Even before the season, some people were saying we were not good enough to win the championship - that is only motivation for us to prove it on the pitch that they are wrong."

On his relationship with Gunners No1 Manuel Almunia, Fabianski added: "Manuel is being our leader on the pitch and is trying to help the team as much as he can.

"I think every goalkeeper needs to have that type of personality. You have to have a really, really big character to play in goal anyway - and want to be responsible for the team."