Despite morale-crushing exits in the FA Cup and in the Champions League, Arsene Wenger's men have recovered well with a win against Liverpool and a draw at Newcastle to put their season back on course.

"It was a lot of pressure on our shoulders but we love it because it means we are doing well," said Vieira.

"We gave ourselves more pressure after losing those first two games against Manchester United and Chelsea. But we managed it well.

"I am proud to be the captain of the team," added the French international.

"Everybody gives their best and, when we are on the pitch, nobody tries to cheat. They just do the best for each other. In the dressing room the atmosphere is fantastic.

Victory at Highbury on Friday will virtually guarantee the Premiership title for Arsenal who would then have 10-point lead over Chelsea with just five matches left.

In the 1970s, matches between Arsenal and Leeds were fiercely-contested affairs with both teams regularly in the chase for honours, but Leeds are third from bottom this season and desperately need a win to move out of the relegation placings.

Their hopes, however, have not been helped by season-ending injuries to Seth Johnson and Erik Bakke.

Manchester United beat Leicester 1-0 on Tuesday on Gary Neville's first goal of the season to close in on second-place Chelsea.

Manchester United are on for 68 points, three fewer than Chelsea, but the Reds have a game in hand.

Leicester, meanwhile are 19th in the 20-team Premier League and in danger of being relegated to the first division.