The Peruvian is expected to be recalled for Saturday’s clash with Bolton and recognises the importance of the three fixtures in the coming week.
"Don't forget, last season we started the same, so we're not really worried about the situation because we started quite similarly and we finished third," he said.
"We know this season will be very, very difficult, but we also know there's only one way to go, to pick points up.
"And we need to start now because if you see the position we're in now, it's difficult to be at the bottom. It's horrible to see Newcastle at the bottom, especially because the big teams like Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester have too many points on us.
"It's the same. This week is very crucial, and we have to start on Saturday.
"We have the European game in midweek and hopefully we can win on Saturday and Wednesday night and Arsenal, why not?
"I know it's very difficult, but I saw Arsenal play against Inter Milan and I know they have great players, but we can beat them."