Uefa Champions League: Arsenal captain William Gallas expects nothing less than silverware this season - and insists there is every chance of going one better in the Champions League than he did with Chelsea.
Gallas (30) started the season doubting the direction of Arsenal following the departure of Thierry Henry, but he has watched from the sidelines as the club made a fine start to top the Premier League.
After returning from a groin injury, Gallas wants to help them stay there as well as aim for glory in Europe's elite competition after suffering semi-final misery twice at Chelsea. "It is very important for us to win something this season," said Gallas. "It will not be easy for us because every team wants to beat Arsenal but we are ready to fight them.
"When you start the season and start winning game by game, you believe in yourself and the squad. Now all the young players know we can do something and they really want to win because if you don't win anything there is no point."
Arsene Wenger's side will have one foot in the knockout stages of the Champions League if they defeat Slavia Prague tonight at the Emirates Stadium.
Their next Premier League assignments are against Liverpool and Manchester United, and Gallas feels they are ready for the test of their credentials.
The Frenchman stressed how important it was for silverware after ending up empty handed last season. "This season I don't know if we will win the Champions League or the Premier League but definitely we have to win something," he added.
The omens have been good so far, with the only dropped points coming after a Jens Lehmann howler at Blackburn. The Germany goalkeeper will be on the bench against Slavia as Manuel Almunia has impressed during his run in the team.
Theo Walcott is pushing for a starting place after his recent cameos off the bench.
"When a guy comes on and makes a difference, he doesn't stay a long time as a substitute," said Wenger.
"That is what is good in the attitude of our players, they come on with a real desire to affect the game."
Arsenal v Slavia Prague Venue: Emirates Stadium Kick-off: 7.45pm On TV: Setanta Ireland.
