It was something I only really noticed because I was uncharacteristically late for a game a few weeks back (yes I am one of those people who always gets into the ground early for an overpriced hotdog) but when I reached the turnstiles of my stand, I couldn’t believe there was no queue.

A few seasons ago this might have been the case 15 minutes before kick off because people simply couldn’t be bothered to go to a dead rubber Europa League group stage game or even worse – it was raining outside. But now there’s no mad rush before kick off because people are happy to spend more time at the Emirates.

The earlybird drinks deals certainly help for sure, but the atmosphere in the concourses is the best it’s ever been at this stadium.

Maybe the singers and brass band were there last year, but I don’t remember them having quite the impact they do now. The players’ songs ring out across the ground way before the first kick of the game and carry on all afternoon. It feels like there’s real community spirit – the joy of getting to reunite with friends and I love seeing fellow fans deep in conversation – desperate to dissect the last game or discuss the opposition that lies ahead.

Rival fans loved to make the library comparison and I couldn’t argue with them a few seasons back – in some games you’d literally be able to hear someone in the next stand cough.

When I went with my Rangers-supporting partner to a game at Ibrox I could not believe the noise that rang through the ground, which grew louder when the team went behind. Who would have thought we’d see that at the Emirates – cheers louder after setbacks than goals at some points.

How joyous it feels to see people stay behind after a home game to clap the players and sing the Saliba song, rather than making a mad dash to Finsbury Park tube.

We all know why it’s happening – the connection between the fans, manager and players is unbelievable.

Whatever happens this season, I hope we never lose this spirit. I can’t wait to see how everyone reacts to the Champions League nights we will hopefully get to enjoy next season and who knows what will happen if we actually win the league – the Emirates might have to get a new roof.

This article first appeared in issue 298 of the Gooner Fanzine