Derby joy sparks Europa Treble dreams

emotional point of view they gave me even more.

“They felt the game as fans. They wore the skin. Now we can fight until the end for a Europa League position.

“I think without a victory today it would have been very difficult. I thank them for their commitment. We are still in the fight. I would love to play Europa League. I only played it twice and I won it twice. It wouldn’t be bad to win it a third time!”

Mourinho won the Europa League with Manchester United and also lifted the trophy with Porto when it was still known as the Uefa Cup. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta (inset) admitted his side had handed victory to Mourinho with a series of defensive mistakes. Arteta said: “He always finds a way to win. When I give it to him, I feel bad. I’m disappointed and frustrated.

“We have to learn. I’m sorry for the boys. I’m sorry for the fans as well.” But Arteta refused to give up on Champions League qualification, saying: “It’s a massive blow, we know the results this weekend but we will keep fighting.”

Alderweireld said: “People don’t see how hard we work. We tried to do better today and showed there is character in the team, fighting spirit.”