Arsene Wenger: Atletico Madrid clash "absolutely vital" for Arsenal

Arsene Wenger has acknowledged the importance of Arsenal's upcoming Europa League semi-final showdown with Atletico Madrid, admitting that it is "absolutely vital" his side win the competition.

The Gunners are 14 points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and are now left battling for silverware on just one front. Arsenal have been handed the toughest of last-four draws, however, having been paired with the tournament favourites for a place in next month's final in Wenger's native France. Asked if victory is required for this season to be considered anything other than a failure, the 68-year-old said: "It would be better, yes. "We have a big opponent in Atletico Madrid and it's absolutely vital we beat them, progress to the final and have a chance to win the competition. "But it is a big obstacle in the semi-final, a big hurdle. Atletico Madrid are seen as the favourites to win the competition but I believe that at our best, we can beat them."