And the Dutchman was delighted after avenging the memory of a midweek defeat by Juventus in Turin which ended the Gunners’ Champions League campaign.

He told Sky Sports 1: ‘‘This was another big game within three days. We started well and got two early goals and that was it.

‘‘We have got enough experience in the team and management to know we had to respond in such a way. We had to go out there and try as hard as possible.

‘‘The space was there and the chances was there and when I look at my own performance it could have been better, but it was okay.

‘‘I enjoy this because you don’t have these sorts of cup competitions in other countries where I’ve played. I want to go all the way.

‘‘We’ve proven over the years that we really enjoy this competition and we’ve done well. Each year is another year where we want to go all the way.

But the former Inter Milan striker refused to underestimate the threat posed by semi-final opponents Middlesbrough.

He added: ‘‘It’s a semi-final and they’ve proven that they are a good side as well. We have to be sure of that and be careful but we are confident.’’