Vieira: Gunners will not fall for Rovers return

"We learned from that, we are now much tougher mentally," said Vieira. "We want to achieve something as a team and we are totally focused on that."

Of course, what did not help Arsenal's cause was the cluster of injuries and suspensions that hit them hard towards the end of the season.

A knee problem forced Vieira out of the FA Cup Final and the last five league games. Campbell, Freddie Ljungberg, Keown and Lauren

also missed vital games. And what happened a year ago is a mirror image of current events at Old Trafford.

"They have had setbacks like we had setbacks," said Vieira. "At a big club like Arsenal, Manchester United or Chelsea you should be able to cope with players missing, but when it all happens at once it is hard - as we found out last season.

"But United are still strong and they are still a threat. No one at Arsenal is saying they are not a strong side. Everything is still possible.

"Despite their problems, they still have quality players - players who are real champions.

Over the years, none of them has been content with just winning once. They win one and they want more. That is why they are still very much a threat."

Vieira's form this season has matched that of his team - highly impressive.

"I am happy on the field and off the field," said Vieira. "I am happy with life. Being the captain has changed me because I feel a greater sense of responsibility.

"It has helped me to improve as a player and a human being. I have to think about about the team, not just myself.

"And it is good when I go back to where I grew up in Dreux near Paris. The people there know me, I grew up with many of them, I lived in the next street.

"They see from what I have achieved so far that you can make something of your life. If I can do it, they can do it."

Another major impact in the life of Vieira was his return to Senegal, where he has helped to establish the Diambars academy that combines academic and sporting excellence in the poverty-ridden country where he was born.

"The Diambars project has helped me grow up and given my life a lot of meaning," he said.

Readers interested in the Diambars charity or making a donation can find out more at www.diambars.com or write to Diambars Charitable Trust, PO Box 586, Western District Officer, 35-50 Rathbone Place, London W1P 1 AA.