Santi Cazorla says Arsenal will not let the intense atmosphere at Besiktas affect them in the first leg of their Champions League play-off.

The Turkish side's supporters are known for the noise they make and the Gunners can expect a hot reception at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium on Tuesday night.

However, Cazorla is relishing the chance to play in Istanbul and is confident Arsene Wenger’s side will get a positive result.

"Turkish football is lived with passion, even more so when it comes to a Champions League play-off" Santi Cazorla

“It is nice to play in these kind of atmospheres, even though it is always better playing at home than away,” the Spaniard told Arsenal Player.

“Nowadays every player enjoys playing in stadiums with great atmospheres - and you always have that in Turkey.

“Turkish football is lived with passion, even more so when it comes to a Champions League play-off. This cannot affect us, though.

“We will go there to play football, thinking about what we have to do and trying to separate ourselves from the atmosphere.”

Cazorla is wary of the threat Besiktas pose, especially now that their attack is spearheaded by Demba Ba.

“He is a great footballer,” he said. “He proved that here in Premier League, playing for Newcastle and Chelsea. He is a great signing for Besiktas.

“We better watch out with him and also with all of their players. But he will be a leader for them and we have to be careful because he has scored a few goals against us. If we don't keep our eyes on him then we will be in trouble.”