Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta credited his side’s 1-0 win at Leicester to stay at the top of the Premier League for the Ukrainians, a year after the Russian invasion.
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Ukraine international Oleksandr Zinchenko replaced Martin Odegaard as Gunners captain for the day and wore an armband in the colors of the Ukrainian flag.
“It’s great because it’s an initiative from the players,” Arteta said. “Martin came to me yesterday and he wanted to have a gesture with him.
‘For all Ukrainians’
“Today we want to win for him, for his loved ones, and for all Ukrainians who I think have inspired the world with the fighting spirit and togetherness they have shown as a country.
“If we can add to our happiness today and reflect who Alex (Zinchenko) is for us, it’s a great opportunity, so I’m happy to dedicate this win to him.”
A run of four games without a win before last weekend’s 4-2 victory at Aston Villa dashed Arsenal’s hopes of a first league title in 19 years.
Arteta’s men instead conceded a quick draw to Manchester City, but are now two points off the title rivals with a game in hand.
“It is very important because it gives more confidence to the players, both at the club and externally,” added Arteta as he returned to winning ways.
“But I’m sure the players can do it. It comes back to some details and fundamentals that ask the game away from us that we made more. The last two games – especially today – we have done more.