Everton manager Marco Silva has dismissed claims that his side is showing signs of inconsistency towards the end of the season as they look to finish seventh and potentially qualify for the Europa League.

Everton have won four of their last five games -- which included wins over top six sides Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United -- but lost 2-0 at already-relegated Fulham to drop to ninth in the standings.

"For me, when we lose one game away or at home it can happen," Silva told reporters ahead of Saturday's trip to Crystal Palace. "It's not a moment to talk about inconsistency in our team.

"It can happen even though I always prepare the team to win. All of you expected after our three wins in a row to go there (to Fulham) and win easily. I told you it would be a difficult match, and we prepared our players in that way.

"They were better than us. We didn't perform the way I wanted, but it's not a matter of inconsistency because if you look at our last six games, our form is really good."

Finishing seventh could allow Everton to play in the Europa League qualifying rounds if Manchester City, who have already qualified for the Champions League, beat Watford in the FA Cup.

Everton are two points behind seventh-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers and a point behind eighth-placed Watford, with one or both sides assured of dropping points when they face each other on Saturday.

"First, we have to keep fighting. We aren't in seventh, it's not the most important thing in this moment," Silva added.

"It will be tight. We are in competition (for seventh) with clubs having really good seasons too. We have to keep doing the best we can and in the end we will see what position we end up in the table."

However, Silva could be without his leading goal scorer Richarlison at Palace. The Brazilian will face a late fitness test on Friday while forward Theo Walcott is yet to recover from an illness.

"Richarlison we have big doubts if he will be able to play," Silva said. "He tried yesterday to work with us.

"He felt different but let's see how he is able to react tomorrow. Today he tried again, but he will be a major doubt for us."

Everton manager Marco Silva has dismissed claims that his side is showing signs of inconsistency towards the end of the season as they look to finish seventh and potentially qualify for the Europa League.

Everton manager Marco Silva has dismissed claims that his side is showing signs of inconsistency towards the end of the season as they look to finish seventh and potentially qualify for the Europa League. Everton have won four of their last five games -- which included wins over top six sides Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United -- but lost 2-0 at already-relegated Fulham to drop to ninth in the standings. "For me, when we lose one game away or at home it can happen," Silva told reporters ahead of Saturday's trip to Crystal Palace. "It's not a moment to talk about inconsistency in our team. "It can happen even though I always prepare the team to win. All of you expected after our three wins in a row to go there (to Fulham) and win easily. I told you it would be a difficult match, and we prepared our players in that way. "They were better than us. We didn't perform the way I wanted, but it's not a matter of inconsistency because if you look at our last six games, our form is really good." Finishing seventh could allow Everton to play in the Europa League qualifying rounds if Manchester City, who have already qualified for the Champions League, beat Watford in the FA Cup. Everton are two points behind seventh-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers and a point behind eighth-placed Watford, with one or both sides assured of dropping points when they face each other on Saturday. "First, we have to keep fighting. We aren't in seventh, it's not the most important thing in this moment," Silva added. "It will be tight. We are in competition (for seventh) with clubs having really good seasons too. We have to keep doing the best we can and in the end we will see what position we end up in the table." However, Silva could be without his leading goal scorer Richarlison at Palace. The Brazilian will face a late fitness test on Friday while forward Theo Walcott is yet to recover from an illness. "Richarlison we have big doubts if he will be able to play," Silva said. "He tried yesterday to work with us. "He felt different but let's see how he is able to react tomorrow. Today he tried again, but he will be a major doubt for us."

Defiant Marco Silva says Everton are not inconsistent

Arsenal manager Unai Emery believes Champions League spot next season is still in his team's hands even their top-four finish were dented after suffering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenals-top-four-bid-rocked-by-crystal-palace-212441">a 2-3 loss to Crystal Palace</a> on Sunday.&nbsp;

In the post-match presentation, Emery said, "We can be today frustrated, but tomorrow we'll stand up and prepare for the game on Wednesday against Wolverhampton (Wanderers) and know it is going to be very difficult. And also, it's in our hands."&nbsp;

He further added, "I have the confidence in our way and I want to be positive today. because we, in this season we were working and finding to be in this moment, in this key moment with the opportunity to be in the top four and we are."

Although they another chance to reach the competition by winning the Europa League. As Emery mentioned, "We are in the semi-final of the Europa League and we can be proud of all (of this). Not today, but yes for all the season and continuing."

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Arsenal sit in fourth place, level on points with Chelsea, who might go above them if they avoid defeat against Burnley on Monday.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery believes Champions League spot next season is still in his team's hands even their top-four finish were dented after suffering a 2-3 loss to Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery believes Champions League spot next season is still in his team's hands even their top-four finish were dented after suffering a 2-3 loss to Crystal Palace on Sunday. In the post-match presentation, Emery said, "We can be today frustrated, but tomorrow we'll stand up and prepare for the game on Wednesday against Wolverhampton (Wanderers) and know it is going to be very difficult. And also, it's in our hands." He further added, "I have the confidence in our way and I want to be positive today. because we, in this season we were working and finding to be in this moment, in this key moment with the opportunity to be in the top four and we are." Although they another chance to reach the competition by winning the Europa League. As Emery mentioned, "We are in the semi-final of the Europa League and we can be proud of all (of this). Not today, but yes for all the season and continuing." Mouth-watering...#PL pic.twitter.com/gjkFFJGHX9 — Premier League (@premierleague) April 21, 2019 × Arsenal sit in fourth place, level on points with Chelsea, who might go above them if they avoid defeat against Burnley on Monday.

Unai Emery believes 'top four in Arsenal's hands'

Arsenal's bid for a top four finish in the Premier League suffered a major setback as Crystal Palace punished their sluggish display to claim a shock 3-2 win on Sunday.

Unai Emery's side paid the price for a defensive horror show at the Emirates Stadium to leave their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League via the domestic route hanging in the balance.

The Gunners, who can also reach the competition by winning the Europa League, fell behind to Christian Benteke's first goal for a year before Mesut Ozil equalised early in the second half.

Shkodran Mustafi's blunder allowed Wilfried Zaha to put Palace back in front.

James McArthur took advantage of more woeful Arsenal defending to make it three and, although Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reduced the deficit, it was too late to stop Palace's first league win at Arsenal since October 1994.

Arsenal sit in fourth place, level on points with Chelsea, who will go above them if they avoid defeat against Burnley on Monday.

Arsenal's top four challenge had been fuelled by their impressive home form and their first league loss at the Emirates since the opening weekend of the season was hugely damaging.

Arsenal had won 12 of their last 13 home games in all competitions, but the end of that streak puts them in the tricky position of needing to improve their dismal away record when they travel to Wolves and Leicester this week.

Emery made seven changes from Thursday's Europa League quarter-final win at Napoli in a bid to freshen up his side and, as a result, Arsenal never looked in sync.&nbsp;

They were authors of their own downfall when Palace took the lead in the 17th minute.

Benteke won a free-kick wide on the right and when it was curled in, Mustafi and Konstantinos Mavropanos both stood watching as Benteke thundered past them to head home from close-range.

It was the much-maligned Benteke's first goal since he scored against Leicester in April 2018, ending the Belgian striker's 19-game drought in his 200th Premier League appearance.

Mustafi was guilty of appealing for offside rather than following Benteke for the goal and the centre-back produced another costly miscue moments later when he headed over from close-range.

Day to forget

It was that kind of afternoon for Arsenal, who felt Palace's Aaron Wan-Bissaka should have conceded a penalty when he blocked a cross with his hands.

Zaha says he wants to leave to play in the Champions League next season and the forward gave a glimpse of his class when he accelerated away for a cross that Benteke ballooned over the bar.

Emery sent on Alex Iwobi and Ainsley Maitland-Niles at half-time, and the changes helped Arsenal draw level two minutes after the restart.

Iwobi slipped a pass to Alexandre Lacazette on the edge of the area and the Arsenal forward picked out Ozil, who beat Vicente Guaita with a fine strike at his near post.

But Mustafi's day to forget hit a new low in the 61st minute as Palace went back in front after another mistake from the German.

When Benteke flicked a header towards the Arsenal area, Mustafi seemed unware of Zaha's presence behind him.

Holding out his arms to indicate the ball would run to keeper Bernd Leno, he bizarrely allowed the Ivorian to run past him and clip a cool finish into the far corner.

Shell-shocked Arsenal crumbled again as Palace made it three in the 69th minute.

Having already won at Manchester City in December, Roy Hodgson's side were on course for another famous scalp when Scott Dann nodded goalwards and McArthur headed past Leno.

Aubameyang capped an incisive burst with his 24th goal of the season in the 77th minute.

But it was too late to spare Arsenal's blushes as Matteo Guendouzi wasted their last chance with a weak finish.

Arsenal's bid for a top four finish in the Premier League suffered a major setback as Crystal Palace punished their sluggish display to claim a shock 3-2 win on Sunday.

Arsenal's bid for a top four finish in the Premier League suffered a major setback as Crystal Palace punished their sluggish display to claim a shock 3-2 win on Sunday. Unai Emery's side paid the price for a defensive horror show at the Emirates Stadium to leave their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League via the domestic route hanging in the balance. The Gunners, who can also reach the competition by winning the Europa League, fell behind to Christian Benteke's first goal for a year before Mesut Ozil equalised early in the second half. Shkodran Mustafi's blunder allowed Wilfried Zaha to put Palace back in front. James McArthur took advantage of more woeful Arsenal defending to make it three and, although Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reduced the deficit, it was too late to stop Palace's first league win at Arsenal since October 1994. Arsenal sit in fourth place, level on points with Chelsea, who will go above them if they avoid defeat against Burnley on Monday. Arsenal's top four challenge had been fuelled by their impressive home form and their first league loss at the Emirates since the opening weekend of the season was hugely damaging. Arsenal had won 12 of their last 13 home games in all competitions, but the end of that streak puts them in the tricky position of needing to improve their dismal away record when they travel to Wolves and Leicester this week. Emery made seven changes from Thursday's Europa League quarter-final win at Napoli in a bid to freshen up his side and, as a result, Arsenal never looked in sync. They were authors of their own downfall when Palace took the lead in the 17th minute. Benteke won a free-kick wide on the right and when it was curled in, Mustafi and Konstantinos Mavropanos both stood watching as Benteke thundered past them to head home from close-range. It was the much-maligned Benteke's first goal since he scored against Leicester in April 2018, ending the Belgian striker's 19-game drought in his 200th Premier League appearance. Mustafi was guilty of appealing for offside rather than following Benteke for the goal and the centre-back produced another costly miscue moments later when he headed over from close-range. Day to forget It was that kind of afternoon for Arsenal, who felt Palace's Aaron Wan-Bissaka should have conceded a penalty when he blocked a cross with his hands. Zaha says he wants to leave to play in the Champions League next season and the forward gave a glimpse of his class when he accelerated away for a cross that Benteke ballooned over the bar. Emery sent on Alex Iwobi and Ainsley Maitland-Niles at half-time, and the changes helped Arsenal draw level two minutes after the restart. Iwobi slipped a pass to Alexandre Lacazette on the edge of the area and the Arsenal forward picked out Ozil, who beat Vicente Guaita with a fine strike at his near post. But Mustafi's day to forget hit a new low in the 61st minute as Palace went back in front after another mistake from the German. When Benteke flicked a header towards the Arsenal area, Mustafi seemed unware of Zaha's presence behind him. Holding out his arms to indicate the ball would run to keeper Bernd Leno, he bizarrely allowed the Ivorian to run past him and clip a cool finish into the far corner. Shell-shocked Arsenal crumbled again as Palace made it three in the 69th minute. Having already won at Manchester City in December, Roy Hodgson's side were on course for another famous scalp when Scott Dann nodded goalwards and McArthur headed past Leno. Aubameyang capped an incisive burst with his 24th goal of the season in the 77th minute. But it was too late to spare Arsenal's blushes as Matteo Guendouzi wasted their last chance with a weak finish.

Arsenal's top four bid rocked by Crystal Palace

Arsenal boosted their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League after a bizarre 10th-minute goal by striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave them a 1-0 win at 10-man Watford on Monday.

The result lifted the Gunners two places up to fourth on 66 points from 33 games, one behind third-placed Tottenham Hotspur. Arsenal are ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea, who have played a game more, on goal difference. Watford stayed 10th with 46 points.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery was pleased with his team's first away clean sheet of the season.

"A clean sheet is very important," he told the BBC. "It is going to give us a lot of information, this match."

The fast-paced clash took a decisive turn in a frantic one-minute spell early on, as Aubameyang found the back of the net in unlikely fashion before Watford striker Troy Deeney was shown a straight red card for elbowing Lucas Torreira.

The home side's goalkeeper Ben Foster dwelled on Daryl Janmaat's back pass for too long, allowing Aubameyang to close him down and block his attempted goalmouth clearance as the ball ricocheted into the back of the net.

Foster made no excuses for his howler.

"I've said sorry to the lads," he said. "I tried to drag it on to my left and pass it out but before I knew it Aubameyang was bloody on me. He is too quick. In hindsight you have to get rid (of the ball) as quick as you can, even if it goes into row Z."

Despite their numerical disadvantage, Watford kept pressing and missed a string of chances to draw level, having twice been denied by the woodwork as well as by some good saves from Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno.

The home side missed their best opportunity in the 80th minute when Arsenal substitute Ainsley Maitland-Niles slid in to block Andre Gray's goal-bound effort after the Watford forward rounded Leno.

Aubameyang, Alex Iwobi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan also came close at the other end but Arsenal were forced to hang on in the closing stages with Watford throwing men forward.

The home team's manager Javi Gracia praised his team for their fighting spirit in the face of adversity.

"We did a lot of things to try to win, a big effort," he said. "We didn't get any points but we played well. It was a difficult game with 10 men."

Arsenal boosted their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League after a bizarre 10th-minute goal by striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave them a 1-0 win at 10-man Watford on Monday.

Arsenal boosted their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League after a bizarre 10th-minute goal by striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave them a 1-0 win at 10-man Watford on Monday. The result lifted the Gunners two places up to fourth on 66 points from 33 games, one behind third-placed Tottenham Hotspur. Arsenal are ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea, who have played a game more, on goal difference. Watford stayed 10th with 46 points. Arsenal manager Unai Emery was pleased with his team's first away clean sheet of the season. "A clean sheet is very important," he told the BBC. "It is going to give us a lot of information, this match." The fast-paced clash took a decisive turn in a frantic one-minute spell early on, as Aubameyang found the back of the net in unlikely fashion before Watford striker Troy Deeney was shown a straight red card for elbowing Lucas Torreira. The home side's goalkeeper Ben Foster dwelled on Daryl Janmaat's back pass for too long, allowing Aubameyang to close him down and block his attempted goalmouth clearance as the ball ricocheted into the back of the net. Foster made no excuses for his howler. "I've said sorry to the lads," he said. "I tried to drag it on to my left and pass it out but before I knew it Aubameyang was bloody on me. He is too quick. In hindsight you have to get rid (of the ball) as quick as you can, even if it goes into row Z." Despite their numerical disadvantage, Watford kept pressing and missed a string of chances to draw level, having twice been denied by the woodwork as well as by some good saves from Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno. The home side missed their best opportunity in the 80th minute when Arsenal substitute Ainsley Maitland-Niles slid in to block Andre Gray's goal-bound effort after the Watford forward rounded Leno. Aubameyang, Alex Iwobi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan also came close at the other end but Arsenal were forced to hang on in the closing stages with Watford throwing men forward. The home team's manager Javi Gracia praised his team for their fighting spirit in the face of adversity. "We did a lot of things to try to win, a big effort," he said. "We didn't get any points but we played well. It was a difficult game with 10 men."

Freakish goal gives Arsenal 1-0 win at 10-man Watford

Tottenham manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Mauricio+Pochettino">Mauricio Pochettino</a> said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years.&nbsp;

Tottenham face already relegated Huddersfield in the Premier League on Saturday without Harry Kane or Dele Ali.&nbsp;

Kane is likely to miss the rest of the season with an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenhams-harry-kane-has-significant-ankle-ligament-damage-209692">ankle injury</a> picked up in their Champions League win over Manchester City, while Dele Ali broke his hand in two places.&nbsp;

"Taking the past, the last few years, I don't think that we are favourites," said Pochettino in a press conference.&nbsp;

He added, "We are below them (Chelsea, Arsenal) but maybe with our belief, our confidence, maybe we are above. We trust in ourselves and are confident we are going to get the top four."&nbsp;

"I think it is going to be tough, it is exciting, amazing for everyone. For us, not so much. But it is going to be fantastic to achieve the top four at the end of the season."

Tottenham need the victory against Huddersfield to keep on track for Champions League football next season.

They are currently one point above Arsenal, but one behind Chelsea.&nbsp;

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years. Tottenham face already relegated Huddersfield in the Premier League on Saturday without Harry Kane or Dele Ali. Kane is likely to miss the rest of the season with an ankle injury picked up in their Champions League win over Manchester City, while Dele Ali broke his hand in two places. "Taking the past, the last few years, I don't think that we are favourites," said Pochettino in a press conference. He added, "We are below them (Chelsea, Arsenal) but maybe with our belief, our confidence, maybe we are above. We trust in ourselves and are confident we are going to get the top four." "I think it is going to be tough, it is exciting, amazing for everyone. For us, not so much. But it is going to be fantastic to achieve the top four at the end of the season." Tottenham need the victory against Huddersfield to keep on track for Champions League football next season. They are currently one point above Arsenal, but one behind Chelsea.

Mauricio Pochettino believes Tottenham not favourites to get the top four

An Aaron Ramsey strike and a Kalidou Koulibaly own goal gave Arsenal a 2-0 victory over Napoli in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday - and a rare and valuable clean sheet to take to Italy in a week's time.

Arsenal took the lead in the 14th minute through Ramsey, who finished off a sweeping move down the right by calmly slotting the ball past Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret.

They doubled the advantage 10 minutes later after a moment of individual brilliance from Lucas Torreira, who dashed through the Napoli midfield before spinning and switching the ball to his left foot and letting fly.

The Uruguayan's shot took a heavy deflection off Senegal defender Koulibaly and was registered as an own-goal.

"We can be happy with this result, but (Napoli) are going to be more competitive away. Our challenge - our success - is going to be if we can be competitive away," Arsenal manager Unai Emery told reporters, repeatedly describing the tie as "50:50".

The Gunners tried to increase their advantage as the first half wore on but they failed to capitalise despite several shots on goal from strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, while Napoli had Meret to thank for numerous saves.

Carlo Ancelotti's men poured forward at the start of the second half in search of an away goal, with striker Lorenzo Insigne's effort ruled offside and Koulibaly denied moments later when keeper Petr Cech tipped his header over the bar.

Arsenal chances&nbsp;​​​​​​​

The game quickly opened up and Ramsey, who will join Napoli's rivals and Serie A leaders Juventus in the close season, and Nacho Monreal created chances at the other end but were unable to outwit Meret again.

Napoli went closest to scoring when Insigne raced down the right and crossed to Piotr Zielinski, but the Pole's right-foot effort shot up over the bar.

"We had our chances and wasted them. We know we didn’t have a good game. Now we have to think about the return leg," Insigne told Sky Sports.

"The away goal would have been vital. We have to stay focused, learn from our mistakes and have more courage next week," he said.

The Italian side have now failed to beat English opponents away from their San Paolo stadium in nine attempts in European competition, and will need to find some scoring form at home if they are to progress in the competition.

"I think the second half gave us some idea how we can play the second game," Ancelotti told reporters, suggesting his side had more of the run of play as Arsenal's players tired, a number of them pulling up with cramp as the game neared the end.

An Aaron Ramsey strike and a Kalidou Koulibaly own goal gave Arsenal a 2-0 victory over Napoli in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday - and a rare and valuable clean sheet to take to Italy in a week's time.

An Aaron Ramsey strike and a Kalidou Koulibaly own goal gave Arsenal a 2-0 victory over Napoli in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday - and a rare and valuable clean sheet to take to Italy in a week's time. Arsenal took the lead in the 14th minute through Ramsey, who finished off a sweeping move down the right by calmly slotting the ball past Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret. They doubled the advantage 10 minutes later after a moment of individual brilliance from Lucas Torreira, who dashed through the Napoli midfield before spinning and switching the ball to his left foot and letting fly. The Uruguayan's shot took a heavy deflection off Senegal defender Koulibaly and was registered as an own-goal. "We can be happy with this result, but (Napoli) are going to be more competitive away. Our challenge - our success - is going to be if we can be competitive away," Arsenal manager Unai Emery told reporters, repeatedly describing the tie as "50:50". The Gunners tried to increase their advantage as the first half wore on but they failed to capitalise despite several shots on goal from strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, while Napoli had Meret to thank for numerous saves. Carlo Ancelotti's men poured forward at the start of the second half in search of an away goal, with striker Lorenzo Insigne's effort ruled offside and Koulibaly denied moments later when keeper Petr Cech tipped his header over the bar. Arsenal chances The game quickly opened up and Ramsey, who will join Napoli's rivals and Serie A leaders Juventus in the close season, and Nacho Monreal created chances at the other end but were unable to outwit Meret again. Napoli went closest to scoring when Insigne raced down the right and crossed to Piotr Zielinski, but the Pole's right-foot effort shot up over the bar. "We had our chances and wasted them. We know we didn’t have a good game. Now we have to think about the return leg," Insigne told Sky Sports. "The away goal would have been vital. We have to stay focused, learn from our mistakes and have more courage next week," he said. The Italian side have now failed to beat English opponents away from their San Paolo stadium in nine attempts in European competition, and will need to find some scoring form at home if they are to progress in the competition. "I think the second half gave us some idea how we can play the second game," Ancelotti told reporters, suggesting his side had more of the run of play as Arsenal's players tired, a number of them pulling up with cramp as the game neared the end.

Europa League: Arsenal take 2-0 advantage over Napoli

Arsenal head coach Unai Emery believes that his side lost a "great opportunity" as their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-phil-jagielka-the-hero-as-everton-dent-arsenals-hopes-208639">losing 0-1 to Everton</a> on Sunday at Goodison Park.&nbsp;

Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner. The result moves Everton up to ninth but Arsenal missed the chance of going third in the table.&nbsp;

"We cannot think today we lost and we are very bad. I think it's a bad result, I think it's not a good performance today," said Emery.&nbsp;

"Our great opportunity was to be in the third position, at the moment we are fourth. I knew before it was going to be difficult," he added.&nbsp;

"We lost a big opportunity and also today we didn't show our best performance and we didn't show our capacity to impose our gameplan against them," he told journalists.&nbsp;

Unai Emery's side stay on 63 points, one behind Spurs, level with fifth-placed Chelsea and two clear of Manchester United in an increasingly tight battle for the Champions League berths.&nbsp;

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"We're going to think the next match on Thursday and also the next match in the Premier League against Watford away. Generally, we are being consistent. And we can continue being consistent, it depends on next matches if we can win," he concluded.&nbsp;

Arsenal head coach Unai Emery believes that his side lost a "great opportunity" as their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented after losing 0-1 to Everton on Sunday at Goodison Park.

Arsenal head coach Unai Emery believes that his side lost a "great opportunity" as their hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented after losing 0-1 to Everton on Sunday at Goodison Park. Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner. The result moves Everton up to ninth but Arsenal missed the chance of going third in the table. "We cannot think today we lost and we are very bad. I think it's a bad result, I think it's not a good performance today," said Emery. "Our great opportunity was to be in the third position, at the moment we are fourth. I knew before it was going to be difficult," he added. "We lost a big opportunity and also today we didn't show our best performance and we didn't show our capacity to impose our gameplan against them," he told journalists. Unai Emery's side stay on 63 points, one behind Spurs, level with fifth-placed Chelsea and two clear of Manchester United in an increasingly tight battle for the Champions League berths. What it means... #EVEARS pic.twitter.com/ywooKLSK4z — Premier League (@premierleague) April 7, 2019 × "We're going to think the next match on Thursday and also the next match in the Premier League against Watford away. Generally, we are being consistent. And we can continue being consistent, it depends on next matches if we can win," he concluded.

'Arsenal lost a great opportunity,' Unai Emery on 1-0 loss to Everton

Arsenal's hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented on Sunday as Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner in a dominant 1-0 victory at Goodison Park.

The veteran defender, who was brought into the team for a rare appearance after Michael Keane had to withdraw in the warm-up through illness, scored after 10 minutes to earn his side a well-deserved third straight league win.

It marked a significant setback for disappointing Arsenal, who remain fourth in the table but missed an opportunity to leap ahead of their third-placed north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Unai Emery's side stay on 63 points, one behind Spurs, level with fifth-placed Chelsea and two clear of Manchester United in an increasingly tight battle for the Champions League berths.

The experienced Jagielka proved Everton's unlikely hero after his late call-up, becoming the oldest goalscorer in the league this season at 36 years 233 days when he poked home his finish after Arsenal failed to clear Lucas Digne's long throw.

The ball had fallen kindly after Dominic Calvert-Lewin got the final touch on to him in the aerial battle, allowing Jagielka to score his first league goal in two years and become Everton's second-oldest marksman in the Premier League era.

"I'm not normally a match-winner, full stop," laughed the former England defender on Sky Sports. "They're the best goals, the little tap-ins from two or three yards."

His goal signalled a hungry and aggressive display from Everton who, while moving up to ninth on 46 points, could have won far more convincingly if Gylfi Sigurdsson and Richarlison had converted any of the side's 23 attempts on goal.

"We got one goal but could have scored a few more," added Jagielka.

He earned special praise from delighted Everton manager Marco Silva, who told the BBC: "He was to start on the bench, but showed how he is a good professional and prepares himself for what the coach and team needs. He is always ready to help the team."

Arsenal, who have conceded at least one goal in every league away match this season, came closest with one curling second-half effort from Henrikh Mkhitaryan but were outplayed and outfought by Silva's team.

They had only two attempts on target in the whole match and, with Mesut Ozil failing to offer much inspiration as captain for the day, endured one of their more frustrating lacklustre away days.

Arsenal's frustration became obvious when the two managers were involved in a brief confrontation in the second half.

"The football is emotional. He wants the best for his team, I want the best for mine. At the end we spoke together and everything is normal," said Silva.

Arsenal boss Emery felt his team would have to rebound swiftly as they prepared to face Napoli in a Europa League quarter-final first leg on Thursday.

"It was not a good result today but we are still fourth," said the Spaniard. "We lost and we need to get up quickly and find the next step."

Arsenal's hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented on Sunday as Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner in a dominant 1-0 victory at Goodison Park.

Arsenal's hopes of a top-four finish in the Premier League were dented on Sunday as Everton captain Phil Jagielka took advantage of an unexpected late recall to score the winner in a dominant 1-0 victory at Goodison Park. The veteran defender, who was brought into the team for a rare appearance after Michael Keane had to withdraw in the warm-up through illness, scored after 10 minutes to earn his side a well-deserved third straight league win. It marked a significant setback for disappointing Arsenal, who remain fourth in the table but missed an opportunity to leap ahead of their third-placed north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Unai Emery's side stay on 63 points, one behind Spurs, level with fifth-placed Chelsea and two clear of Manchester United in an increasingly tight battle for the Champions League berths. The experienced Jagielka proved Everton's unlikely hero after his late call-up, becoming the oldest goalscorer in the league this season at 36 years 233 days when he poked home his finish after Arsenal failed to clear Lucas Digne's long throw. The ball had fallen kindly after Dominic Calvert-Lewin got the final touch on to him in the aerial battle, allowing Jagielka to score his first league goal in two years and become Everton's second-oldest marksman in the Premier League era. "I'm not normally a match-winner, full stop," laughed the former England defender on Sky Sports. "They're the best goals, the little tap-ins from two or three yards." His goal signalled a hungry and aggressive display from Everton who, while moving up to ninth on 46 points, could have won far more convincingly if Gylfi Sigurdsson and Richarlison had converted any of the side's 23 attempts on goal. "We got one goal but could have scored a few more," added Jagielka. He earned special praise from delighted Everton manager Marco Silva, who told the BBC: "He was to start on the bench, but showed how he is a good professional and prepares himself for what the coach and team needs. He is always ready to help the team." Arsenal, who have conceded at least one goal in every league away match this season, came closest with one curling second-half effort from Henrikh Mkhitaryan but were outplayed and outfought by Silva's team. They had only two attempts on target in the whole match and, with Mesut Ozil failing to offer much inspiration as captain for the day, endured one of their more frustrating lacklustre away days. Arsenal's frustration became obvious when the two managers were involved in a brief confrontation in the second half. "The football is emotional. He wants the best for his team, I want the best for mine. At the end we spoke together and everything is normal," said Silva. Arsenal boss Emery felt his team would have to rebound swiftly as they prepared to face Napoli in a Europa League quarter-final first leg on Thursday. "It was not a good result today but we are still fourth," said the Spaniard. "We lost and we need to get up quickly and find the next step."

Premier League: Phil Jagielka the hero as Everton dent Arsenal's hopes of top-four finish

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is in line to feature more regularly in away matches starting with Sunday's trip to Everton as the north London side look to clinch a top-four Premier League finish, manager Unai Emery said on Friday.

Ozil has started only four of Arsenal's 14 away games in the league this season with Emery often benching the German playmaker, starting him only in home games where they have won 10 in a row.

Five of Arsenal's remaining seven league games are away as they look to return to the Champions League after a two-year hiatus.

"It depends on each match, sometimes it was because we needed something different, sometimes he was injured," Emery told reporters when asked about Ozil's absence from the starting lineup in away games.

"Now he's OK, training every day and he can play in different systems. He's working very well, playing very well, he's helping us. I'm very happy with him."

Ozil has generally played as a central playmaker this season, either behind one striker or behind the pairing of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.

Emery said the latter role made Ozil play like a "team player" with his versatility to thrive in different formations proving to be useful.

"4-2-3-1 is maybe the best position for him, but also sometimes 4-3-1-2 where he is playing like a team player, and also 3-4-1-2," Emery added.

"We can change the different systems with him and he can play to the left or right. Most important is to be ready and available to help us and now he is."

A win or a draw for Arsenal on Sunday will take them up to third in the standings above rivals Tottenham Hotspur with six more games to play.

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is in line to feature more regularly in away matches starting with Sunday's trip to Everton as the north London side look to clinch a top-four Premier League finish, manager Unai Emery said on Friday.

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is in line to feature more regularly in away matches starting with Sunday's trip to Everton as the north London side look to clinch a top-four Premier League finish, manager Unai Emery said on Friday. Ozil has started only four of Arsenal's 14 away games in the league this season with Emery often benching the German playmaker, starting him only in home games where they have won 10 in a row. Five of Arsenal's remaining seven league games are away as they look to return to the Champions League after a two-year hiatus. "It depends on each match, sometimes it was because we needed something different, sometimes he was injured," Emery told reporters when asked about Ozil's absence from the starting lineup in away games. "Now he's OK, training every day and he can play in different systems. He's working very well, playing very well, he's helping us. I'm very happy with him." Ozil has generally played as a central playmaker this season, either behind one striker or behind the pairing of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. Emery said the latter role made Ozil play like a "team player" with his versatility to thrive in different formations proving to be useful. "4-2-3-1 is maybe the best position for him, but also sometimes 4-3-1-2 where he is playing like a team player, and also 3-4-1-2," Emery added. "We can change the different systems with him and he can play to the left or right. Most important is to be ready and available to help us and now he is." A win or a draw for Arsenal on Sunday will take them up to third in the standings above rivals Tottenham Hotspur with six more games to play.

Arsenal's Mesut Ozil ready to start more away games, says manager Emery

Goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

Ramsey found his way through a packed defence on the half hour to score with a low shot before Frenchman Lacazette put the game to bed in the 83rd minute with a chip over the keeper.

The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season.

Five of Arsenal's remaining seven fixtures are away, where they have picked up fewer than half of their points this season, a fact Emery was quick to pick up on after the match.

"Our challenge is away - to be as consistent as we are at home," the Spaniard told reporters. His players, nevertheless, seem confident that they can return to Europe's elite club competition for the first time in three seasons.

"I can feel the difference in the atmosphere from last season. Now we can maybe go to the Champions League," Lacazette told Sky Sports after a convincing win over the Magpies.

Sweeping Move

Newcastle had not beaten Arsenal since November 2010 and not won away since December and they appeared to set themselves up for a draw at best in North London, with five men in the back line and another four in front of them for most of the game.

The tactics worked until a sweeping Arsenal move in which Welsh midfielder Ramsey found Lacazette and then raced forward into the area to meet the return pass with a sweetly timed left-foot shot that went into the net off the far post.

Arsenal pushed forward repeatedly as the opening period came to a close but failed to finish off any of their moves, with Sead Kolasinac particularly guilty of some wayward passing.

Their best chance came just before halftime when Lacazette latched onto a pass from Mesut Ozil, spun round and lashed the ball goalwards only for Matt Richie to head it off the line.

Lacazette wrapped up the points, however, when Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles failed to clear a header into the area from Arsenal substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The Frenchman nipped in behind Lascelles and chipped an inch-perfect ball over Martin Dubravka to seal the win.

Newcastle remain in 14th place on 35 points, seven points above the relegation places, and have six games left.

"For us every game is a final. We should focus, concentrate, not be overconfident," manager Rafael Benitez told reporters ahead of their next match at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

Goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. Ramsey found his way through a packed defence on the half hour to score with a low shot before Frenchman Lacazette put the game to bed in the 83rd minute with a chip over the keeper. The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season. Five of Arsenal's remaining seven fixtures are away, where they have picked up fewer than half of their points this season, a fact Emery was quick to pick up on after the match. "Our challenge is away - to be as consistent as we are at home," the Spaniard told reporters. His players, nevertheless, seem confident that they can return to Europe's elite club competition for the first time in three seasons. "I can feel the difference in the atmosphere from last season. Now we can maybe go to the Champions League," Lacazette told Sky Sports after a convincing win over the Magpies. Sweeping Move Newcastle had not beaten Arsenal since November 2010 and not won away since December and they appeared to set themselves up for a draw at best in North London, with five men in the back line and another four in front of them for most of the game. The tactics worked until a sweeping Arsenal move in which Welsh midfielder Ramsey found Lacazette and then raced forward into the area to meet the return pass with a sweetly timed left-foot shot that went into the net off the far post. Arsenal pushed forward repeatedly as the opening period came to a close but failed to finish off any of their moves, with Sead Kolasinac particularly guilty of some wayward passing. Their best chance came just before halftime when Lacazette latched onto a pass from Mesut Ozil, spun round and lashed the ball goalwards only for Matt Richie to head it off the line. Lacazette wrapped up the points, however, when Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles failed to clear a header into the area from Arsenal substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The Frenchman nipped in behind Lascelles and chipped an inch-perfect ball over Martin Dubravka to seal the win. Newcastle remain in 14th place on 35 points, seven points above the relegation places, and have six games left. "For us every game is a final. We should focus, concentrate, not be overconfident," manager Rafael Benitez told reporters ahead of their next match at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Arsenal climb to third with victory over Newcastle

On an invite from his special fan, Bollywood's star Shah Rukh Khan attended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-climb-to-third-with-victory-over-newcastle-207391">Arsenal vs Newcastle United</a> Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Monday.&nbsp;

Guess who's the special fan? It is none other than Arsenal's star midfielder and one of the best footballers in the world, Mesut Ozil.&nbsp;

Shah Rukh Khan, who is popular as 'King Khan' in the Indian film industry, posted a picture of him with Ozil and a Swedish-Turkish actress Amine Gulse.&nbsp;

"What a lovely evening @Arsenal congratulations. Thx @MesutOzil1088 &amp; #AmineGulse for your warmth love &amp; hospitality. See u guys soon in India," Shah Rukh wrote on his Twitter handle. &nbsp;

While in the match, goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.&nbsp;

The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season.&nbsp;

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What a lovely evening <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a> congratulations. Thx <a href="https://twitter.com/MesutOzil1088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MesutOzil1088</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmineGulse?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmineGulse</a> for your warmth love &amp; hospitality. See u guys soon in India. <a href="https://t.co/4rtBJXZ5uW">pic.twitter.com/4rtBJXZ5uW</a>
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1112847262626013184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Granit Xhaka finally gets to meet his favourite bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/jGwzBAVmZv">pic.twitter.com/jGwzBAVmZv</a>
— SRK Universe (@SRKUniverse) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRKUniverse/status/1112976886232039424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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EVERYONE WANTS TO MEET YOU WHEN YOU'RE THE GREATEST OF ALL AND SRK INDEED IS THE GREATEST . 
❤❤❤ 
WHERE EVER HE GOES GETS ALL THE LOVE HE DESERVES ❤ 
YOU ARE THE ONLY KING <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamsrk</a> ps : Looking so handsome as usual ❤ <a href="https://t.co/fCYq8lyDTT">pic.twitter.com/fCYq8lyDTT</a>
— 🌹 ••▪♡ kคtคriຖค ••▪♡ 🌹 (@SRK_katarina) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRK_katarina/status/1112980948398866432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

On an invite from his special fan, Bollywood's star Shah Rukh Khan attended Arsenal vs Newcastle United Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Monday. Guess who's the special fan?

On an invite from his special fan, Bollywood's star Shah Rukh Khan attended Arsenal vs Newcastle United Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Monday. Guess who's the special fan? It is none other than Arsenal's star midfielder and one of the best footballers in the world, Mesut Ozil. Shah Rukh Khan, who is popular as 'King Khan' in the Indian film industry, posted a picture of him with Ozil and a Swedish-Turkish actress Amine Gulse. "What a lovely evening @Arsenal congratulations. Thx @MesutOzil1088 & #AmineGulse for your warmth love & hospitality. See u guys soon in India," Shah Rukh wrote on his Twitter handle. While in the match, goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season. What a lovely evening @Arsenal congratulations. Thx @MesutOzil1088 & #AmineGulse for your warmth love & hospitality. See u guys soon in India. pic.twitter.com/4rtBJXZ5uW — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) April 1, 2019 × Granit Xhaka finally gets to meet his favourite bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan ❤️ pic.twitter.com/jGwzBAVmZv — SRK Universe (@SRKUniverse) April 2, 2019 × EVERYONE WANTS TO MEET YOU WHEN YOU'RE THE GREATEST OF ALL AND SRK INDEED IS THE GREATEST . ❤❤❤ WHERE EVER HE GOES GETS ALL THE LOVE HE DESERVES ❤ YOU ARE THE ONLY KING @iamsrk ps : Looking so handsome as usual ❤ pic.twitter.com/fCYq8lyDTT — 🌹 ••▪♡ kคtคriຖค ••▪♡ 🌹 (@SRK_katarina) April 2, 2019 ×

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan attends Premier League match and roots for his fan, see pics

From Pep Guardiola to Zinedine Zidane: Top football coaches and their shocking salaries

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday.

Rank outsiders Slavia Prague, who ousted Sevilla in thrilling style on Thursday, were rewarded with a tie against Chelsea, the other English Premier League team in the last eight.

Villarreal and Valencia were drawn together in an all-Spanish tie and Benfica will meet Eintracht Frankfurt, who eliminated Inter Milan with a 1-0 win at San Siro.

Arsenal were initially drawn at home in the second leg against Napoli but the order was reversed by UEFA to avoid a clash with Chelsea, who host Slavia in the return of their tie in London.

Arsenal or Napoli will meet Villarreal or Valencia in the semi-finals while Benfica or Eintracht play Slavia or Chelsea.

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday.

Napoli, chasing their first European title since Diego Maradona's team won the old UEFA Cup in 1989, were drawn against Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the Europa League on Friday. Rank outsiders Slavia Prague, who ousted Sevilla in thrilling style on Thursday, were rewarded with a tie against Chelsea, the other English Premier League team in the last eight. Villarreal and Valencia were drawn together in an all-Spanish tie and Benfica will meet Eintracht Frankfurt, who eliminated Inter Milan with a 1-0 win at San Siro. Arsenal were initially drawn at home in the second leg against Napoli but the order was reversed by UEFA to avoid a clash with Chelsea, who host Slavia in the return of their tie in London. Arsenal or Napoli will meet Villarreal or Valencia in the semi-finals while Benfica or Eintracht play Slavia or Chelsea.

Europa League quarter-finals: Napoli face Arsenal, Slavia meet Chelsea

Arsenal striker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-arsenal-slump-to-defeat-against-french-club-rennes-201871">Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck</a> twice as his side beat Stade Rennes 3-0 to reach the Europa League quarter-finals and join Chelsea, who earlier on Thursday thrashed Dynamo Kiev 5-0 with a hat-trick from Oliver Giroud.

But Inter Milan went out after a 1-0 home loss to Eintracht Frankfurt who made the last eight along with Napoli, Benfica, Slavia Prague and Spanish sides Valencia and Villarreal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ac-milan-crash-out-of-europa-league-after-losing-to-olympiacos-183882">Arsenal had lost the first leg 3-1</a> against Rennes in France but it took them just 15 minutes to swing the tie their way.

Their Gabon forward Aubameyang tapped home a cross from Aaron Ramsey with just five minutes on the clock and then turned provider 10 minutes later when he crossed for Ainsley Maitland-Niles to double the lead with a header.

Although Rennes hit the post early in the second period, they were mostly toothless and Aubameyang cemented the victory with another goal from close range after 72 minutes.

Arsenal became only the second team in Europa League history to win a tie after losing the first leg 3-1.

Chelsea’s French striker Giroud, the competition's top scorer this season, got his seventh and eighth goals before Marcos Alonso tapped in a third just before halftime.

Giroud netted his third goal after 59 minutes when he headed home a Willian free kick and Callum Hudson-Odoi added a fifth to cap an 8-0 aggregate victory for the Premier League side.

The perfect hat-trick – goals with his left and right foot plus a header - was Giroud’s first for Chelsea and the win was the London club’s ninth in 10 European games this season and their biggest in the UEFA Cup or Europa League.

In the only tie between two former winners of the UEFA Cup, the predecessor to the Europa league, Eintracht stunned three-time champions Inter with a 1-0 victory that took them through.

Luka Jovic, the 21-year-old striker on loan from Benfica, lobbed Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic after six minutes and the visitors held on to progress after a goalless first leg.

Napoli had beaten Salzburg 3-0 at home last week and it looked like the tie was wrapped up after 14 minutes when Arkadiusz Milik put them ahead with an acrobatic strike.

But the Austrians, whose unbeaten home run in Europe stretches back 17 games, fought back for a 3-1 win on the night.

Munas Dabbur equalised with his eighth Europa League goal of the season and substitute Fredrik Gulbrandsen made it 2-1 from a low cross by Andreas Ulmer midway through the second half.

Christoph Leitgeb got Salzburg's third in stoppage-time but the away goal ensured Napoli went through 4-3 on aggregate.

It took hosts Krasnodar 85 minutes to revive their hopes of a quarter-final place at the expense of Valencia.

Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, Krasnodar levelled the aggregate score through Shapi Suleymanov's spectacular strike which would have put them through on away goals.

However, Goncalo Guedes broke Russian hearts with a goal in stoppage time to earn the Spaniards a dramatic victory.

They were joined by neighbours Villarreal, who qualified 5-2 on aggregate with a 2-1 win over Zenit St Petersburg.

Gerard Moreno put Villarreal 1-0 ahead after half an hour and Carlos Bacca doubled their lead with his 21st European goal early in the second half. Branislav Ivanovic got a consolation for Zenit in stoppage time.

Sevilla, were knocked out 6-5 on aggregate by Slavia Prague who claimed a thrilling 4-3 extra-time win. The teams were level at 2-2 after 90 minutes to leave the tie at 4-4 on aggregate.

But Mick van Buren and Ibrahim-Benjamin Traore scored for the home team either side of a Franco Vazquez goal for Sevilla to dump the three times Europa League winners out.

Benfica also needed extra time to knock out Dynamo Zagreb.

Jonas gave the Portuguese a 1-0 lead after 90 minutes to level the score at 1-1 on aggregate before Francisco Ferreira and Alex Grimaldo, with a sensational 30-yard drive, struck in the extra period to earn Benfica a record fifth last-eight spot.

The draw for the quarter-finals and semi-finals takes place on Friday.

Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck twice as his side beat Stade Rennes 3-0 to reach the Europa League quarter-finals and join Chelsea, who earlier on Thursday thrashed Dynamo Kiev 5-0 with a hat-trick from Oliver Giroud.

Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck twice as his side beat Stade Rennes 3-0 to reach the Europa League quarter-finals and join Chelsea, who earlier on Thursday thrashed Dynamo Kiev 5-0 with a hat-trick from Oliver Giroud. But Inter Milan went out after a 1-0 home loss to Eintracht Frankfurt who made the last eight along with Napoli, Benfica, Slavia Prague and Spanish sides Valencia and Villarreal. Arsenal had lost the first leg 3-1 against Rennes in France but it took them just 15 minutes to swing the tie their way. Their Gabon forward Aubameyang tapped home a cross from Aaron Ramsey with just five minutes on the clock and then turned provider 10 minutes later when he crossed for Ainsley Maitland-Niles to double the lead with a header. Although Rennes hit the post early in the second period, they were mostly toothless and Aubameyang cemented the victory with another goal from close range after 72 minutes. Arsenal became only the second team in Europa League history to win a tie after losing the first leg 3-1. Chelsea’s French striker Giroud, the competition's top scorer this season, got his seventh and eighth goals before Marcos Alonso tapped in a third just before halftime. Giroud netted his third goal after 59 minutes when he headed home a Willian free kick and Callum Hudson-Odoi added a fifth to cap an 8-0 aggregate victory for the Premier League side. The perfect hat-trick – goals with his left and right foot plus a header - was Giroud’s first for Chelsea and the win was the London club’s ninth in 10 European games this season and their biggest in the UEFA Cup or Europa League. In the only tie between two former winners of the UEFA Cup, the predecessor to the Europa league, Eintracht stunned three-time champions Inter with a 1-0 victory that took them through. Luka Jovic, the 21-year-old striker on loan from Benfica, lobbed Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic after six minutes and the visitors held on to progress after a goalless first leg. Napoli had beaten Salzburg 3-0 at home last week and it looked like the tie was wrapped up after 14 minutes when Arkadiusz Milik put them ahead with an acrobatic strike. But the Austrians, whose unbeaten home run in Europe stretches back 17 games, fought back for a 3-1 win on the night. Munas Dabbur equalised with his eighth Europa League goal of the season and substitute Fredrik Gulbrandsen made it 2-1 from a low cross by Andreas Ulmer midway through the second half. Christoph Leitgeb got Salzburg's third in stoppage-time but the away goal ensured Napoli went through 4-3 on aggregate. It took hosts Krasnodar 85 minutes to revive their hopes of a quarter-final place at the expense of Valencia. Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, Krasnodar levelled the aggregate score through Shapi Suleymanov's spectacular strike which would have put them through on away goals. However, Goncalo Guedes broke Russian hearts with a goal in stoppage time to earn the Spaniards a dramatic victory. They were joined by neighbours Villarreal, who qualified 5-2 on aggregate with a 2-1 win over Zenit St Petersburg. Gerard Moreno put Villarreal 1-0 ahead after half an hour and Carlos Bacca doubled their lead with his 21st European goal early in the second half. Branislav Ivanovic got a consolation for Zenit in stoppage time. Sevilla, were knocked out 6-5 on aggregate by Slavia Prague who claimed a thrilling 4-3 extra-time win. The teams were level at 2-2 after 90 minutes to leave the tie at 4-4 on aggregate. But Mick van Buren and Ibrahim-Benjamin Traore scored for the home team either side of a Franco Vazquez goal for Sevilla to dump the three times Europa League winners out. Benfica also needed extra time to knock out Dynamo Zagreb. Jonas gave the Portuguese a 1-0 lead after 90 minutes to level the score at 1-1 on aggregate before Francisco Ferreira and Alex Grimaldo, with a sensational 30-yard drive, struck in the extra period to earn Benfica a record fifth last-eight spot. The draw for the quarter-finals and semi-finals takes place on Friday.

Europa League: Aubameyang's double strike topples Stade Rennes; Arsenal in quarter-finals

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was pushed by a pitch invader during a Premier League clash between Man Utd and Arsenal on Sunday.&nbsp;

After Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty that made 2-0 in favour of&nbsp;Arsenal, a lone fan ran onto the field to celebrate with the players and appeared to make contact with United defender Smalling.&nbsp;

He then approached Arsenal players with his arms aloft before stewards took him off the pitch and he was arrested, according to Arsenal communications director Mark Gonnella.&nbsp;

"A man has been arrested on suspicion of common assault and pitch invasion following an incident during the Arsenal v Man Utd game at the Emirates Stadium today," said a Metropolitan Police statement issued Sunday.&nbsp;

"He is currently in custody at a north London police station."&nbsp;

After the match, Solskjaer insisted, "(There) shouldn't be a place that someone runs onto the pitch.&nbsp;

"We just have to make sure we play football and they (the fans) watch football."&nbsp;

Watch the video:&nbsp;

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🗣 "You absolute numpty" 
 
The last thing we wanted to see today, another pitch invader, this time at the Emirates 🙄 <a href="https://t.co/M5AZ6WO9T4">pic.twitter.com/M5AZ6WO9T4</a>
— Soccer AM (@SoccerAM) <a href="https://twitter.com/SoccerAM/status/1104806639151079424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It was a view shared by Arsenal boss Unai Emery, who said, "I don't want that."&nbsp;

Sunday's incidents followed several recent episodes of hooliganism, including coin attacks on players and managers, in Scottish football, with Rangers captain James Tavernier confronted by a pitch-invading Hibernian fan after his side's 1-1 draw at Easter Road on Friday.

Earlier in the day in the second-tier Championship, Aston Villa midfielder <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-birmingham-fan-punches-aston-villas-midfielder-jack-grealish-arrested-202391">Jack Grealish was punched by a pitch invader</a> during a derby match at Birmingham City.&nbsp;

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was pushed by a pitch invader during a Premier League clash between Man Utd and Arsenal on Sunday. After Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty that made 2-0 in favour of Arsenal, a lone fan ran onto the field to celebrate with the players and appeared to make contact with United defender Smalling.

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was pushed by a pitch invader during a Premier League clash between Man Utd and Arsenal on Sunday. After Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty that made 2-0 in favour of Arsenal, a lone fan ran onto the field to celebrate with the players and appeared to make contact with United defender Smalling. He then approached Arsenal players with his arms aloft before stewards took him off the pitch and he was arrested, according to Arsenal communications director Mark Gonnella. "A man has been arrested on suspicion of common assault and pitch invasion following an incident during the Arsenal v Man Utd game at the Emirates Stadium today," said a Metropolitan Police statement issued Sunday. "He is currently in custody at a north London police station." After the match, Solskjaer insisted, "(There) shouldn't be a place that someone runs onto the pitch. "We just have to make sure we play football and they (the fans) watch football." Watch the video: 🗣 "You absolute numpty" The last thing we wanted to see today, another pitch invader, this time at the Emirates 🙄 pic.twitter.com/M5AZ6WO9T4 — Soccer AM (@SoccerAM) March 10, 2019 × It was a view shared by Arsenal boss Unai Emery, who said, "I don't want that." Sunday's incidents followed several recent episodes of hooliganism, including coin attacks on players and managers, in Scottish football, with Rangers captain James Tavernier confronted by a pitch-invading Hibernian fan after his side's 1-1 draw at Easter Road on Friday. Earlier in the day in the second-tier Championship, Aston Villa midfielder Jack Grealish was punched by a pitch invader during a derby match at Birmingham City.

Watch: Fan arrested for pitch invasion during Arsenal's goal celebration against Manchester United

From Raheem Sterling's sparkle to Harry Kane conundrum: Major takeaways from this week's Premier League

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed Manchester United's lack of ruthlessness as the Norwegian suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager in a 2-0 loss at Arsenal on Sunday.

Granit Xhaka's early strike and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang's penalty 21 minutes from time saw Gunners leapfrog United into the Premier League top four.

Unai Emery's men also close to within just a point of third-placed Tottenham and now hold the upper hand in the race for Champions League qualification.

Arsenal do not face any of the top six in their remaining eight league games, whilst United host title-chasing Manchester City and Chelsea in the coming weeks on top of their Champions League and FA Cup commitments.

"You have to be disappointed with the result, but the performance was a good one," said Solskjaer.

"The first goal always dictates how the game goes. We created chances, big chances, hit the woodwork twice, (Bernd) Leno played well.

"In terms of what you can control, we shouldn't be too disappointed."

European trips to France for both sides in midweek produced vastly contrasting results as United shocked free-spending Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 to progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Gunners, on the other hand, went down 3-1 to Rennes to give themselves a mountain to climb in Thursday's second leg to reach the last eight of the Europa League.

Emery made five changes from that side and was rewarded with a vital victory.

"We are going to play difficult matches and being consistent is very important," said Emery. "At the moment I think we are playing consistently, but we need to be calm and patient."

De Gea not distracted

After a bright start, Arsenal were nearly hit with a sucker punch when with United's first attack, Romelu Lukaku turned Luke Shaw's cross onto the crossbar for the first of a series of wasted chances for the Belgian striker.

However, at the other end it was the normally flawless David de Gea who was at fault for the opener as the Spaniard failed to read the swerve on Xhaka's long-range strike 12 minutes in.

Solskjaer, though, rejected suggestions ongoing contract talks over a new deal for the United goalkeeper has effected his concentration.

"David's really focused and concentrated, he's too professional to let his mind wander," insisted Solskjaer.

United seemed to feel the after-effects of their heroics in Paris early on, but soon clicked into gear to look more like the side that had suffered just one defeat in Solskjaer's first 17 games in charge.

Fred's curling effort from outside the box clipped the post before Lukaku tried to round Bernd Leno, but the Arsenal goalkeeper stood up well to block.

The German stopper had an unconvincing start to life as Arsenal number one, but has looked ever more assured in recent weeks and made another huge save to deny Lukaku once more from close range six minutes into the second-half.

United were utterly dominant for the first 20 minutes of the second period, but to Solskjaer's frustration conceded a penalty when Alexandre Lacazette charged into the area and hit the floor under minimal contact from Fred.

"I don't think there is enough contact to warrant the penalty," said Solskjaer, while even Emery categorised the award as "soft."

Aubameyang missed a last-minute penalty to win the north London derby against Tottenham last weekend, but made no mistake to leave the visitors a mountain to climb.

"I knew it would be tough, but I was really confident," said the Gabon international.

Solskjaer's time at United as a player and over the past three months as boss has been littered with late drama, none more so than at PSG on Wednesday.

That was a Champions League night that will live long in the memory, but there was no turnaround this time to leave the Red Devils with plenty of work to do just to qualify for the competition next season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed Manchester United's lack of ruthlessness as the Norwegian suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager in a 2-0 loss at Arsenal on Sunday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed Manchester United's lack of ruthlessness as the Norwegian suffered his first domestic defeat as caretaker manager in a 2-0 loss at Arsenal on Sunday. Granit Xhaka's early strike and Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang's penalty 21 minutes from time saw Gunners leapfrog United into the Premier League top four. Unai Emery's men also close to within just a point of third-placed Tottenham and now hold the upper hand in the race for Champions League qualification. Arsenal do not face any of the top six in their remaining eight league games, whilst United host title-chasing Manchester City and Chelsea in the coming weeks on top of their Champions League and FA Cup commitments. "You have to be disappointed with the result, but the performance was a good one," said Solskjaer. "The first goal always dictates how the game goes. We created chances, big chances, hit the woodwork twice, (Bernd) Leno played well. "In terms of what you can control, we shouldn't be too disappointed." European trips to France for both sides in midweek produced vastly contrasting results as United shocked free-spending Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 to progress to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. The Gunners, on the other hand, went down 3-1 to Rennes to give themselves a mountain to climb in Thursday's second leg to reach the last eight of the Europa League. Emery made five changes from that side and was rewarded with a vital victory. "We are going to play difficult matches and being consistent is very important," said Emery. "At the moment I think we are playing consistently, but we need to be calm and patient." De Gea not distracted After a bright start, Arsenal were nearly hit with a sucker punch when with United's first attack, Romelu Lukaku turned Luke Shaw's cross onto the crossbar for the first of a series of wasted chances for the Belgian striker. However, at the other end it was the normally flawless David de Gea who was at fault for the opener as the Spaniard failed to read the swerve on Xhaka's long-range strike 12 minutes in. Solskjaer, though, rejected suggestions ongoing contract talks over a new deal for the United goalkeeper has effected his concentration. "David's really focused and concentrated, he's too professional to let his mind wander," insisted Solskjaer. United seemed to feel the after-effects of their heroics in Paris early on, but soon clicked into gear to look more like the side that had suffered just one defeat in Solskjaer's first 17 games in charge. Fred's curling effort from outside the box clipped the post before Lukaku tried to round Bernd Leno, but the Arsenal goalkeeper stood up well to block. The German stopper had an unconvincing start to life as Arsenal number one, but has looked ever more assured in recent weeks and made another huge save to deny Lukaku once more from close range six minutes into the second-half. United were utterly dominant for the first 20 minutes of the second period, but to Solskjaer's frustration conceded a penalty when Alexandre Lacazette charged into the area and hit the floor under minimal contact from Fred. "I don't think there is enough contact to warrant the penalty," said Solskjaer, while even Emery categorised the award as "soft." Aubameyang missed a last-minute penalty to win the north London derby against Tottenham last weekend, but made no mistake to leave the visitors a mountain to climb. "I knew it would be tough, but I was really confident," said the Gabon international. Solskjaer's time at United as a player and over the past three months as boss has been littered with late drama, none more so than at PSG on Wednesday. That was a Champions League night that will live long in the memory, but there was no turnaround this time to leave the Red Devils with plenty of work to do just to qualify for the competition next season.

Arsenal defeat Manchester United to surge into top four

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday.&nbsp;

During the pre-match conference, Emery said, "We know Sunday will be a tough match. It's for everybody an amazing match with very good players and we are going to play at home with our supporters."&nbsp;

He added, "We need a very big performance from each player and tactically like a team."&nbsp;

The Gunners lost 3-1 at Rennes in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, whilst the day before United qualified for the UCL quarter-finals with an incredible comeback to beat Paris St-Germain.&nbsp;

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Applying the finishing touches 👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARSMUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARSMUN</a> <a href="https://t.co/kDIu0xWQ7L">pic.twitter.com/kDIu0xWQ7L</a>
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/1104582648951918592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Manchester United look to end the historic week with a 15th win in 18 games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.&nbsp;

Still unbeaten domestically since Solskjaer took charge, United head to the Emirates Stadium - a ground where they beat 'the Gunners' 3-1 in the FA Cup in January.&nbsp;

"I am looking forward also to playing against a team like Manchester United, and how they are in this moment with each player, with a very big confidence after the match on Wednesday (win over PSG in the UEFA Champions League)," said Emery.&nbsp;

Just a point separates the sides in the Premier League table.&nbsp;

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said that each player needs to put in their 100 per cent as they get ready to host in-form Manchester United in the English Premier League on Sunday. During the pre-match conference, Emery said, "We know Sunday will be a tough match. It's for everybody an amazing match with very good players and we are going to play at home with our supporters." He added, "We need a very big performance from each player and tactically like a team." The Gunners lost 3-1 at Rennes in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, whilst the day before United qualified for the UCL quarter-finals with an incredible comeback to beat Paris St-Germain. Applying the finishing touches 👌#ARSMUN pic.twitter.com/kDIu0xWQ7L — Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) March 10, 2019 × Manchester United look to end the historic week with a 15th win in 18 games under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Still unbeaten domestically since Solskjaer took charge, United head to the Emirates Stadium - a ground where they beat 'the Gunners' 3-1 in the FA Cup in January. "I am looking forward also to playing against a team like Manchester United, and how they are in this moment with each player, with a very big confidence after the match on Wednesday (win over PSG in the UEFA Champions League)," said Emery. Just a point separates the sides in the Premier League table.

Arsenal need 'very big performance' against Manchester United, says Unai Emery

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-seals-3-billion-deal-with-russia-to-lease-nuclear-powered-submarine-201867">Russia to lease nuclear-powered submarine to India in deal worth $3 billion</a>

India on Thursday sealed a $3 billion deal with Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years, military sources said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ex-campaign-chief-paul-manafort-sentenced-to-47-months-in-prison-for-tax-crimes-bank-fraud-201865">Trump ex-campaign chief Paul Manafort sentenced to 47 months in prison for tax crimes, bank fraud</a>

US President Donald Trump's former campaign chief Paul Manafort was sentenced to 47 months in prison Thursday for tax crimes and bank fraud.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-arsenal-slump-to-defeat-against-french-club-rennes-201871">Europa League: Arsenal slump to defeat against French club Rennes</a>

Chelsea outclassed Dynamo Kiev 3-0 in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday but Arsenal face an uphill task to make the quarter-finals after slumping to a 3-1 defeat at French club Rennes.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-first-list-of-congress-candidates-out-sonia-gandhi-to-contest-from-rae-bareli-rahul-from-amethi-201869">Lok Sabha polls: First list of Congress candidates out, Sonia Gandhi to contest from Rae Bareli; Rahul from Amethi</a>

Rahul Gandhi-led Congress party on Thursday released its first official list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-terrorist-training-camps-active-in-pakistan-indian-official-201877">22 terrorist training camps active in Pakistan: Indian official</a>

As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of Jaish-e-Mohammed, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border.

&nbsp;

Russia to lease nuclear-powered submarine to India in deal worth $3 billion India on Thursday sealed a $3 billion deal with Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years, military sources said.

Russia to lease nuclear-powered submarine to India in deal worth $3 billion India on Thursday sealed a $3 billion deal with Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years, military sources said. Trump ex-campaign chief Paul Manafort sentenced to 47 months in prison for tax crimes, bank fraud US President Donald Trump's former campaign chief Paul Manafort was sentenced to 47 months in prison Thursday for tax crimes and bank fraud. Europa League: Arsenal slump to defeat against French club Rennes Chelsea outclassed Dynamo Kiev 3-0 in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday but Arsenal face an uphill task to make the quarter-finals after slumping to a 3-1 defeat at French club Rennes. Lok Sabha polls: First list of Congress candidates out, Sonia Gandhi to contest from Rae Bareli; Rahul from Amethi Rahul Gandhi-led Congress party on Thursday released its first official list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. 22 terrorist training camps active in Pakistan: Indian official As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of Jaish-e-Mohammed, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach.

"It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference.

"Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big."

Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks.

However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving.

"The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added.

"I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season.

"We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team."

Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday.

Tottenham Hotspur face a "nearly impossible" task to try and win the Premier League this season with back-to-back defeats denting their title bid, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Friday. A 2-0 loss to London rivals Chelsea and a 2-1 defeat by Burnley left third-placed Tottenham with 60 points from 28 matches, nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool and eight behind defending champions Manchester City. Speaking ahead of Saturday's derby meeting with Arsenal, the Argentine conceded that a first ever Premier League title for Spurs was almost completely out of reach. "It was difficult after the Burnley defeat and after Chelsea it's nearly impossible. We need to win every game and with two opponents above us they need to lose a lot," Pochettino told a news conference. "Until you finish and mathematically it can be possible, of course you can dream, but to be honest it's not a possibility. The percentage is not too big." Tottenham's chances of finishing in the top four are even hanging in the balance with Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea breathing down their necks. However, Pochettino believes his side are still over-achieving. "The feeling is a bit weird because everyone would've signed to be in the position we're in today. And you're asking me about Arsenal being only four points behind, and Manchester United and Chelsea behind them," he added. "I think we are living in a different reality because with all of the circumstances Tottenham deserve big praise to be in the position we are in at this stage of the season. "We are disappointed with the last two results but we must keep going and trust in our team." Jan Vertonghen and Harry Winks are both nursing hip injuries and will be assessed before the game at Wembley Stadium while Dele Alli (hamstring) and Eric Dier (illness) will miss out.

'Nearly impossible' for Spurs to bounce back in title race: Mauricio Pochettino

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish.

Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday.

Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week.

Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth.

Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat.

Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener.

Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear.

The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net.

Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser.

Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside.

The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno.

However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind.

Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark.

The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy.

Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser.

Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot.

Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season.

Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on.

However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed.

Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby.

Hugo Lloris saved a last-minute penalty from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Tottenham avoided a third straight defeat and claimed a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in Saturday's north London derby. Arsenal led early on through Aaron Ramsey's well-taken goal, but Harry Kane's contentious penalty 16 minutes from time ensured third-placed Spurs maintain a four-point lead over the Gunners in the fight for top-four finish. Manchester United can overtake Arsenal and move into fourth with victory over Southampton at Old Trafford later on Saturday. Unai Emery's men will reflect on a missed opportunity to inflict further pain on a Spurs side that had lost to Burnley and Chelsea in the past week. Emery made a number of big calls with his starting line-up with Aubameyang dropped to the bench alongside Mesut Ozil even though both scored in Wednesday's 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth. Alexandre Lacazette was instead handed the task of leading the line and the Frenchman spurned a big chance inside three minutes when he skewed his shot wide with just international teammate Lloris to beat. Lacazette has edged ahead of Aubameyang in Emery's pecking order thanks to his superior link-up play and that showed in Arsenal's opener. Davinson Sanchez misjudged his header from a long ball forward and with one touch Lacazette sent Ramsey in the clear. The Welshman has already signed a pre-contract deal to join Juventus next season, but at the stadium where he scored the winner in two FA Cup finals for the Gunners, he left the Arsenal support with another memory to cherish by coolly rounding Lloris before slotting into the empty net. Spurs started like a side short on confidence, but they slowly wrestled control back and only the offside flag and Bernd Leno in the Arsenal goal denied them an equaliser. Kane sent a thumping header into the top corner from Christian Eriksen's free-kick but was ruled offside. The same two players combined a minute before the break as this time Kane's scooped pass picked out the Dane who shot too close to the advancing Leno. However, the German goalkeeper then made a remarkable stop to turn Moussa Sissoko's follow-up effort behind. Lacazette passed up another big chance at the start of the second period when he again failed to hit the target at the end of a well-worked Arsenal move before being hooked for Aubameyang just before the hour mark. The former Lyon striker's reaction to being replaced suggests Emery still has a tough task to keep both his star forwards happy. Emery also has work to do at the other end of the field as Arsenal remain without a clean sheet away from home in the Premier League this season, although there was plenty of controversy about Spurs' equaliser. Shkodran Mustafi was guilty of a push on Kane's back, but the England captain should have been flagged offside before referee Anthony Taylor pointed to the spot. Kane dusted himself down and slotted home his 22nd goal of the season. Arsenal had a huge chance to land a significant psychological blow to Spurs' season and secure their first away win against top six opposition in the Premier League since January 2015 when Aubameyang went down under Sanchez's challenge late on. However, Aubameyang's poor penalty was saved by Lloris and Jan Vertonghen produced a stunning last-ditch challenge to deny the Gabon striker in the scramble that followed. Arsenal played the final seconds with 10 men when Lucas Torreira was sent-off for a late lunge on Danny Rose, but for the first time this season Spurs drew to remain in the driving seat for Champions League football next season.

Hugo Lloris salvages Spurs a point against Arsenal

Arsenal cruised to victory over a disjointed Southampton thanks to two first-half goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Henrikh Mkhitaryan at the Emirates on Sunday, taking them back into the top four in the Premier League.

Arsenal took the lead in the sixth minute in bizarre circumstances, Lacazette neatly back-heeling in a pass from Mkhitaryan while the rest of the team were still appealing for a penalty after Lucas Torreira took a tumble in the box.

The goal came seconds after Saints' Nathan Redmond was through on goal at the other end, only to fire his shot straight at goalkeeper Bernd Leno.

The home side doubled their advantage minutes later when Southampton keeper Angus Gunn, making only his second Premier League appearance, cleared the ball straight into the path of Arsenal's Alex Iwobi.

The Nigerian midfielder bolted forward and passed across the goal to the unmarked Mkhitaryan, who thumped his shot low into the corner.

Lacazette should arguably have had a hat-trick within the first half, but he was unable to take advantage of any of the numerous opportunities that came his way.

First he had a glancing header from a Granit Xhaka corner saved, then he blasted over the bar from within the six-yard box, and seconds later he spun away from his marker and shot straight into the outstretched leg of Gunn.

Southampton, by contrast, looked a shadow of the team that won the reverse fixture at St Mary's in December, registering only three shots in the half to the Gunners' 11.

They brought on Charlie Austin in the second half to see if he could maintain his record of scoring against Arsenal every time he has met them in the league, but the Saints were unable to break back into the game.

The result moves Unai Emery's side up into fourth place in the standings on 53 points after Manchester United were held to a goalless draw by Liverpool at Old Trafford.

The Gunners remain unbeaten in 13 home league matches this season and have now won their last seven in a row at the Emirates.

Arsenal cruised to victory over a disjointed Southampton thanks to two first-half goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Henrikh Mkhitaryan at the Emirates on Sunday, taking them back into the top four in the Premier League.

Arsenal cruised to victory over a disjointed Southampton thanks to two first-half goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Henrikh Mkhitaryan at the Emirates on Sunday, taking them back into the top four in the Premier League. Arsenal took the lead in the sixth minute in bizarre circumstances, Lacazette neatly back-heeling in a pass from Mkhitaryan while the rest of the team were still appealing for a penalty after Lucas Torreira took a tumble in the box. The goal came seconds after Saints' Nathan Redmond was through on goal at the other end, only to fire his shot straight at goalkeeper Bernd Leno. The home side doubled their advantage minutes later when Southampton keeper Angus Gunn, making only his second Premier League appearance, cleared the ball straight into the path of Arsenal's Alex Iwobi. The Nigerian midfielder bolted forward and passed across the goal to the unmarked Mkhitaryan, who thumped his shot low into the corner. Lacazette should arguably have had a hat-trick within the first half, but he was unable to take advantage of any of the numerous opportunities that came his way. First he had a glancing header from a Granit Xhaka corner saved, then he blasted over the bar from within the six-yard box, and seconds later he spun away from his marker and shot straight into the outstretched leg of Gunn. Southampton, by contrast, looked a shadow of the team that won the reverse fixture at St Mary's in December, registering only three shots in the half to the Gunners' 11. They brought on Charlie Austin in the second half to see if he could maintain his record of scoring against Arsenal every time he has met them in the league, but the Saints were unable to break back into the game. The result moves Unai Emery's side up into fourth place in the standings on 53 points after Manchester United were held to a goalless draw by Liverpool at Old Trafford. The Gunners remain unbeaten in 13 home league matches this season and have now won their last seven in a row at the Emirates.

Arsenal ease past Southampton to go fourth in Premier League

Arsenal will face French side Rennes in the last 16 of the Europa League, while Chelsea were paired with Dynamo Kiev in Friday's draw.

Both Premier League clubs will be at home in the first leg on Thursday, March 7, with the return matches scheduled for March 14.

Among the other ties, former European Cup finalists Eintracht Frankfurt were drawn against Inter Milan.&nbsp;

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🔸OFFICIAL: ROUND OF 16 DRAW!🔸 
 
😃 or 😩 ❓ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UELdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UELdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/3OCua9VOkC">pic.twitter.com/3OCua9VOkC</a>
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The draw for the last 16 of the Europa League made on Friday:

Chelsea (ENG) v Dynamo Kiev (UKR)

Eintracht Frankfurt (GER) v Inter (ITA)

Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) v Benfica (POR)

Napoli (ITA) v Salzburg (AUT)

Valencia (ESP) v FC Krasnodar (RUS)

Sevilla (ESP) v Slavia Prague (CZE)

Arsenal (ENG) v Rennes (FRA)

Zenit Saint Petersburg (RUS) v Villarreal (ESP)&nbsp;

- First legs to be played on March 7, second legs on March 14

Arsenal will face French side Rennes in the last 16 of the Europa League, while Chelsea were paired with Dynamo Kiev in Friday's draw. Both Premier League clubs will be at home in the first leg on Thursday, March 7, with the return matches scheduled for March 14.

Arsenal will face French side Rennes in the last 16 of the Europa League, while Chelsea were paired with Dynamo Kiev in Friday's draw. Both Premier League clubs will be at home in the first leg on Thursday, March 7, with the return matches scheduled for March 14. Among the other ties, former European Cup finalists Eintracht Frankfurt were drawn against Inter Milan. 🔸OFFICIAL: ROUND OF 16 DRAW!🔸 😃 or 😩 ❓ #UELdraw pic.twitter.com/3OCua9VOkC — UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) February 22, 2019 × The draw for the last 16 of the Europa League made on Friday: Chelsea (ENG) v Dynamo Kiev (UKR) Eintracht Frankfurt (GER) v Inter (ITA) Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) v Benfica (POR) Napoli (ITA) v Salzburg (AUT) Valencia (ESP) v FC Krasnodar (RUS) Sevilla (ESP) v Slavia Prague (CZE) Arsenal (ENG) v Rennes (FRA) Zenit Saint Petersburg (RUS) v Villarreal (ESP) - First legs to be played on March 7, second legs on March 14

Arsenal to face Rennes in Europa League last 16, Chelsea draw Dynamo Kiev

Manchester United must build on their 2-0 win over defending champions Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup and go all the way to the final, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

United have had to play two tough away games at fellow Premier League top-four contenders, Arsenal and Chelsea, to reach the quarter-finals, and now play another top flight side in Wolverhampton Wanderers in the next round.

"We want to get to the final," Solskjaer told reporters after the win at Stamford Bridge.

"It'll be a tough away game against Wolves, but it seems like both we and our fans love the away games. It didn't feel like an away game with that support behind the goal.

"We lost the final to Chelsea last year. My last game (as a player) was a loss to Chelsea in the FA Cup final. Last time we beat them in the cup was 20 years ago, apparently."

Fourth-placed United will shift their focus back to the league and the race for the top four this weekend when they host title contenders Liverpool, with both Arsenal and Chelsea a point below them in the standings.

"We play Liverpool next week, but Chelsea, Arsenal and us will fight for that fourth position... three good teams fighting for that one position. But this was about getting through to the next round," Solskjaer added.

Manchester United must build on their 2-0 win over defending champions Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup and go all the way to the final, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Manchester United must build on their 2-0 win over defending champions Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup and go all the way to the final, caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said. United have had to play two tough away games at fellow Premier League top-four contenders, Arsenal and Chelsea, to reach the quarter-finals, and now play another top flight side in Wolverhampton Wanderers in the next round. "We want to get to the final," Solskjaer told reporters after the win at Stamford Bridge. "It'll be a tough away game against Wolves, but it seems like both we and our fans love the away games. It didn't feel like an away game with that support behind the goal. "We lost the final to Chelsea last year. My last game (as a player) was a loss to Chelsea in the FA Cup final. Last time we beat them in the cup was 20 years ago, apparently." Fourth-placed United will shift their focus back to the league and the race for the top four this weekend when they host title contenders Liverpool, with both Arsenal and Chelsea a point below them in the standings. "We play Liverpool next week, but Chelsea, Arsenal and us will fight for that fourth position... three good teams fighting for that one position. But this was about getting through to the next round," Solskjaer added.

Manchester United's Solskjaer eyes Cup final after win at Chelsea

Chelsea claimed a 2-1 victory at Malmo in the Europa League last-32 first leg on Thursday to ease some of the pressure on beleaguered coach Maurizio Sarri, while Arsenal suffered a shock loss to BATE Borisov.

Away side Chelsea desperately needed a response after back-to-back humiliating away losses, with last Sunday's 6-0 thrashing by Manchester City following a 4-0 reverse at Bournemouth.

Ross Barkley took advantage of a defensive lapse by the home team to put Chelsea ahead on the half-hour mark, with Olivier Giroud adding a 58th-minute second before Malmo's late goal gave them a glimmer of hope ahead of next week's return match at Stamford Bridge.

Sarri named a strong team, although he did leave Gonzalo Higuain and Eden Hazard on the bench.

Chelsea found themselves up against a spirited Malmo outfit in the first half, roared on by a vociferous home crowd, but kept the Swedes at arm's length before Barkley grabbed their first away goal of 2019.

Pedro swung over a cross which Lasse Nielsen should have headed away, but the defender failed with his attemped volleyed clearance and Barkley was on hand to control and stab into the net.

Uwe Rosler's Malmo piled on the pressure at the end of the half, but Barkley twice produced crucial headers at the other end to keep Chelsea in front.

Malmo continued to push Chelsea back after the restart, with David Luiz flinging himself to his right to head Arnor Traustason's shot past the post.

But the Premier League giants took total control of the tie in the 58th minute with a wonderful counter-attack.

Barkley led the charge before picking out Willian, and the Brazilian powered to the byline before cutting the ball back for Giroud to flick in a cool back-heeled finish.

The French striker has now scored five goals in six Europa League games this season, despite only netting once in 23 matches in domestic competitions.

But Malmo did grab the goal their efforts deserved in the 80th minute, as Anders Christiansen slotted past Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Arsenal beaten in Belarus

Arsenal face an uphill battle to progress after a 1-0 defeat by BATE in a game which saw Alexandre Lacazette sent off for elbowing Aleksandar Filipovic with five minutes remaining.

Stanislav Dragun put BATE ahead just before the break in Barysaw and Arsenal never threatened an equaliser, with Lacazette's late dismissal also ruling him out of next week's second leg in London.

Unai Emery's side have now won just two of their last nine away matches -- last weekend's victory over the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield and a FA Cup win against third-tier Blackpool.

Elsewhere, Napoli began life without record goalscorer Marek Hamsik with a 3-1 win in a fiery atmosphere at FC Zurich.

Lorenzo Insigne, who has replaced Hamsik as captain after the Slovakian's move to China, scored the opening goal, with Jose Callejon and Piotr Zielinski also on target.

Celtic's European adventures appear to be over for another season after being outclassed 2-0 by Valencia at Parkhead.

Denis Cheryshev and Ruben Sobrino got the goals as the Spaniards extended their recent unbeaten run to six matches.

Inter Milan claimed a 1-0 win at Rapid Vienna despite Mauro Icardi snubbing the trip after being stripped of the captaincy over a contract row, with Lautaro Martinez scoring the winner from the penalty spot.

Wissam Ben Yedder's 22nd-minute strike helped record five-time winners Sevilla take a large step towards the last 16 with a 1-0 victory over Lazio in Rome, while Benfica backed up their 10-0 weekend thumping of Nacional by winning 2-1 at Galatasaray.

Salzburg, semi-finalists last season, lost 2-1 at Club Brugge, while 10-man Sporting Lisbon were beaten 1-0 by Villarreal in the Portuguese capital.

Chelsea claimed a 2-1 victory at Malmo in the Europa League last-32 first leg on Thursday to ease some of the pressure on beleaguered coach Maurizio Sarri, while Arsenal suffered a shock loss to BATE Borisov.

Chelsea claimed a 2-1 victory at Malmo in the Europa League last-32 first leg on Thursday to ease some of the pressure on beleaguered coach Maurizio Sarri, while Arsenal suffered a shock loss to BATE Borisov. Away side Chelsea desperately needed a response after back-to-back humiliating away losses, with last Sunday's 6-0 thrashing by Manchester City following a 4-0 reverse at Bournemouth. Ross Barkley took advantage of a defensive lapse by the home team to put Chelsea ahead on the half-hour mark, with Olivier Giroud adding a 58th-minute second before Malmo's late goal gave them a glimmer of hope ahead of next week's return match at Stamford Bridge. Sarri named a strong team, although he did leave Gonzalo Higuain and Eden Hazard on the bench. Chelsea found themselves up against a spirited Malmo outfit in the first half, roared on by a vociferous home crowd, but kept the Swedes at arm's length before Barkley grabbed their first away goal of 2019. Pedro swung over a cross which Lasse Nielsen should have headed away, but the defender failed with his attemped volleyed clearance and Barkley was on hand to control and stab into the net. Uwe Rosler's Malmo piled on the pressure at the end of the half, but Barkley twice produced crucial headers at the other end to keep Chelsea in front. Malmo continued to push Chelsea back after the restart, with David Luiz flinging himself to his right to head Arnor Traustason's shot past the post. But the Premier League giants took total control of the tie in the 58th minute with a wonderful counter-attack. Barkley led the charge before picking out Willian, and the Brazilian powered to the byline before cutting the ball back for Giroud to flick in a cool back-heeled finish. The French striker has now scored five goals in six Europa League games this season, despite only netting once in 23 matches in domestic competitions. But Malmo did grab the goal their efforts deserved in the 80th minute, as Anders Christiansen slotted past Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Arsenal beaten in Belarus Arsenal face an uphill battle to progress after a 1-0 defeat by BATE in a game which saw Alexandre Lacazette sent off for elbowing Aleksandar Filipovic with five minutes remaining. Stanislav Dragun put BATE ahead just before the break in Barysaw and Arsenal never threatened an equaliser, with Lacazette's late dismissal also ruling him out of next week's second leg in London. Unai Emery's side have now won just two of their last nine away matches -- last weekend's victory over the Premier League's bottom club Huddersfield and a FA Cup win against third-tier Blackpool. Elsewhere, Napoli began life without record goalscorer Marek Hamsik with a 3-1 win in a fiery atmosphere at FC Zurich. Lorenzo Insigne, who has replaced Hamsik as captain after the Slovakian's move to China, scored the opening goal, with Jose Callejon and Piotr Zielinski also on target. Celtic's European adventures appear to be over for another season after being outclassed 2-0 by Valencia at Parkhead. Denis Cheryshev and Ruben Sobrino got the goals as the Spaniards extended their recent unbeaten run to six matches. Inter Milan claimed a 1-0 win at Rapid Vienna despite Mauro Icardi snubbing the trip after being stripped of the captaincy over a contract row, with Lautaro Martinez scoring the winner from the penalty spot. Wissam Ben Yedder's 22nd-minute strike helped record five-time winners Sevilla take a large step towards the last 16 with a 1-0 victory over Lazio in Rome, while Benfica backed up their 10-0 weekend thumping of Nacional by winning 2-1 at Galatasaray. Salzburg, semi-finalists last season, lost 2-1 at Club Brugge, while 10-man Sporting Lisbon were beaten 1-0 by Villarreal in the Portuguese capital.

Chelsea edge out Malmo as Arsenal suffer Europa League setback

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was not used in his best position at Arsenal and can offer Juventus something different when he joins them next season, according to the Italian club.&nbsp;

Ramsey is <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/aaron-ramsey-leaves-arsenal-after-11-years-to-join-juventus-196858">set to join Juventus on a four-year deal</a> in the close season after signing a pre-contract with the defending Serie A champions this week. The Welshman's contract at Arsenal expires this season.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old has played in a number of midfield positions and also played as a wide forward during his 11-year stay at the north London club.&nbsp;

Juventus Sporting Director Fabio Paratici said Juventus should play him as a 'mezzala' - an advanced role in a three-man midfield - to make use of Ramsey's goal-scoring ability.&nbsp;

"Ramsey is a player who, in my opinion, has never found his position, because he has never played as a 'mezzala' in a three, which is his role," Paratici told Gazzetta dello Sport.&nbsp;

"He's more technical, he's a final ball man, he has a nose for the goal. He is a different player from what we've got, we don't have someone like him in our squad."&nbsp;

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was not used in his best position at Arsenal and can offer Juventus something different when he joins them next season, according to the Italian club.

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was not used in his best position at Arsenal and can offer Juventus something different when he joins them next season, according to the Italian club. Ramsey is set to join Juventus on a four-year deal in the close season after signing a pre-contract with the defending Serie A champions this week. The Welshman's contract at Arsenal expires this season. The 28-year-old has played in a number of midfield positions and also played as a wide forward during his 11-year stay at the north London club. Juventus Sporting Director Fabio Paratici said Juventus should play him as a 'mezzala' - an advanced role in a three-man midfield - to make use of Ramsey's goal-scoring ability. "Ramsey is a player who, in my opinion, has never found his position, because he has never played as a 'mezzala' in a three, which is his role," Paratici told Gazzetta dello Sport. "He's more technical, he's a final ball man, he has a nose for the goal. He is a different player from what we've got, we don't have someone like him in our squad."

Arsenal did not play Aaron Ramsey in best position, says Juventus boss

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey is leaving the club after 11 seasons to join Juventus, the Serie A club said on Monday as it confirmed the Welshman had signed a four-year contract.

The 28-year-old will join the Turin side in July and become the third Welshman to play for them after John Charles, who played for them from 1957 to 1962, and Ian Rush.

Ramsey has made 256 Premier League appearances since joining Arsenal from Cardiff City in 2008 but he has struggled for a place in the starting line-up under Unai Emery this season and failed to agree on a new deal with the London club in the final year of his contract.

The impasse enabled him to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs since Jan. 1.

The BBC said that Ramsey will earn over $514,040 a week at Juventus, making him the highest-earning British player ever based on basic salary.

Ramsey has made 22 league appearances for Arsenal this season, starting in nine of those and scoring twice, including a splendid strike against Fulham in October that was regarded by many as an early contender for goal of the season.

He had month-long loans to Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City during the 2010-11 season to help him regain match fitness as he recovered from injury.

Ramsey published a statement on Twitter thanking Arsenal's "loyal and supportive" fans.

"You welcomed me as a teenager and have been there for me through all the highs and lows I've encountered during my time at the club," he said. "It is with a heavy heart that I leave after 11 incredible years in North London."

Arsenal said in a statement that Ramsey had made a "fantastic contribution" to the club.

"He has always been a consummate professional and will always have a special place in the hearts and memories of Arsenal fans around the world," it said.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey is leaving the club after 11 seasons to join Juventus, the Serie A club said on Monday as it confirmed the Welshman had signed a four-year contract.

Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey is leaving the club after 11 seasons to join Juventus, the Serie A club said on Monday as it confirmed the Welshman had signed a four-year contract. The 28-year-old will join the Turin side in July and become the third Welshman to play for them after John Charles, who played for them from 1957 to 1962, and Ian Rush. Ramsey has made 256 Premier League appearances since joining Arsenal from Cardiff City in 2008 but he has struggled for a place in the starting line-up under Unai Emery this season and failed to agree on a new deal with the London club in the final year of his contract. The impasse enabled him to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs since Jan. 1. The BBC said that Ramsey will earn over $514,040 a week at Juventus, making him the highest-earning British player ever based on basic salary. Ramsey has made 22 league appearances for Arsenal this season, starting in nine of those and scoring twice, including a splendid strike against Fulham in October that was regarded by many as an early contender for goal of the season. He had month-long loans to Nottingham Forest and Cardiff City during the 2010-11 season to help him regain match fitness as he recovered from injury. Ramsey published a statement on Twitter thanking Arsenal's "loyal and supportive" fans. "You welcomed me as a teenager and have been there for me through all the highs and lows I've encountered during my time at the club," he said. "It is with a heavy heart that I leave after 11 incredible years in North London." Arsenal said in a statement that Ramsey had made a "fantastic contribution" to the club. "He has always been a consummate professional and will always have a special place in the hearts and memories of Arsenal fans around the world," it said.

Aaron Ramsey leaves Arsenal after 11 years to join Juventus

Sergio Aguero's hat-trick led Manchester City to a 3-1 win over&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;on Sunday and back into second place in the Premier League, two points behind leaders Liverpool.

The victory put the pressure on Liverpool ahead off their trip to West Ham United on Monday. Juergen Klopp's side have 61 points with champions City on 59 and Tottenham Hotspur on 57.

Aguero gave City the lead after 48 seconds with a stooping header after Aymeric Laporte had robbed Alex Iwobi and whipped in a cross.

City were dominant but the Gunners got back on level terms in the 11th minute when Nacho Monreal flicked on a Lucas Torreira corner and defender Laurent Koscielny headed in from two yards out.

Aguero struck again just before the break, tapping in a low cross from Raheem Sterling, who had combined well with Ilkay Gundogan in the build-up.

City's record scorer wrapped up the win with Sterling again the provider but as Aguero slid in to meet his low cross, the ball appeared to go in off his arm.

It was Aguero's 10th hat-trick in the Premier League, a record bettered only by Alan Shearer who scored 11. The Argentine striker has netted 20 goals in all competitions this season -- the sixth straight campaign he has reached that tally.

Sergio Aguero's hat-trick led Manchester City to a 3-1 win over Arsenal on Sunday and back into second place in the Premier League, two points behind leaders Liverpool.

Sergio Aguero's hat-trick led Manchester City to a 3-1 win over Arsenal on Sunday and back into second place in the Premier League, two points behind leaders Liverpool. The victory put the pressure on Liverpool ahead off their trip to West Ham United on Monday. Juergen Klopp's side have 61 points with champions City on 59 and Tottenham Hotspur on 57. Aguero gave City the lead after 48 seconds with a stooping header after Aymeric Laporte had robbed Alex Iwobi and whipped in a cross. City were dominant but the Gunners got back on level terms in the 11th minute when Nacho Monreal flicked on a Lucas Torreira corner and defender Laurent Koscielny headed in from two yards out. Aguero struck again just before the break, tapping in a low cross from Raheem Sterling, who had combined well with Ilkay Gundogan in the build-up. City's record scorer wrapped up the win with Sterling again the provider but as Aguero slid in to meet his low cross, the ball appeared to go in off his arm. It was Aguero's 10th hat-trick in the Premier League, a record bettered only by Alan Shearer who scored 11. The Argentine striker has netted 20 goals in all competitions this season -- the sixth straight campaign he has reached that tally.

Sergio Aguero's hat-trick fires Man City to 3-1 win over Arsenal

Manchester City, Liverpool look for fresh impetus after Premier League stumbles

Premier League spending in the January transfer window fell for the first time since 2012 after three of the top six clubs decided not to add players to the squad, according to a Deloitte report published on Friday.

Thursday's deadline day spending accounted for 50 million pounds ($65.49 million) -- bringing the month's spending to 180 million pounds.

That is less than half of January 2018 spending of 430 million pounds, which included Liverpool signing Virgil van Dijk from Southampton for a world record deal fee for a defender.

The top six Premier League clubs - Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United - accounted for 43 percent of expenditure, lower than January last year when this figure stood at 62 percent.

Tottenham are set to play the entire 2018-19 campaign without recruiting players, having failed to add new faces over the last two transfer windows.

Liverpool, United, Everton and Southampton also chose not to sign anyone in January.

"With central distributions to clubs now likely to remain around current levels until at least the end of the 2021-22 season, clubs are potentially taking a more long-term view to their transfer strategies," Tim Bridge, director in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, said.

January spending was at 225 million pounds in 2011 but fell to 60 million pounds in the following year.

This year's biggest transfer move of the January window came from Chelsea, who spent 55 million pounds for Christian Pulisic from Borussia Dortmund.

For the first time since 2005, Newcastle United broke their transfer record to sign Paraguayan playmaker Miguel Almiron from Major League Soccer side Atlanta United for 20 million pounds.

Wolverhampton Wanderers completed the signing of Atletico Madrid full back Jonny Otto for 15 million pounds after a successful loan spell.

Defending champions Manchester City signed Hajduk Split midfielder Ante Palaversa for 7 million pounds and loaned him back to the Croatian side.

The Deloitte report also confirmed that clubs in the bottom six of the standings recorded spending of 20 million pounds, compared to 90 million pounds in the same period last year.

Premier League spending in the January transfer window fell for the first time since 2012 after three of the top six clubs decided not to add players to the squad, according to a Deloitte report published on Friday.

Premier League spending in the January transfer window fell for the first time since 2012 after three of the top six clubs decided not to add players to the squad, according to a Deloitte report published on Friday. Thursday's deadline day spending accounted for 50 million pounds ($65.49 million) -- bringing the month's spending to 180 million pounds. That is less than half of January 2018 spending of 430 million pounds, which included Liverpool signing Virgil van Dijk from Southampton for a world record deal fee for a defender. The top six Premier League clubs - Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United - accounted for 43 percent of expenditure, lower than January last year when this figure stood at 62 percent. Tottenham are set to play the entire 2018-19 campaign without recruiting players, having failed to add new faces over the last two transfer windows. Liverpool, United, Everton and Southampton also chose not to sign anyone in January. "With central distributions to clubs now likely to remain around current levels until at least the end of the 2021-22 season, clubs are potentially taking a more long-term view to their transfer strategies," Tim Bridge, director in the Sports Business Group at Deloitte, said. January spending was at 225 million pounds in 2011 but fell to 60 million pounds in the following year. This year's biggest transfer move of the January window came from Chelsea, who spent 55 million pounds for Christian Pulisic from Borussia Dortmund. For the first time since 2005, Newcastle United broke their transfer record to sign Paraguayan playmaker Miguel Almiron from Major League Soccer side Atlanta United for 20 million pounds. Wolverhampton Wanderers completed the signing of Atletico Madrid full back Jonny Otto for 15 million pounds after a successful loan spell. Defending champions Manchester City signed Hajduk Split midfielder Ante Palaversa for 7 million pounds and loaned him back to the Croatian side. The Deloitte report also confirmed that clubs in the bottom six of the standings recorded spending of 20 million pounds, compared to 90 million pounds in the same period last year.

Premier League January transfer spending fell for first time since 2012

Arsenal coach Unai Emery said their prime focus is the Premier League but also confirmed they will play the Europa League with "great motivation."&nbsp;

"Our focus now is very clear and it's the Premier League, it's our first (meaning main) focus," said Arsenal's coach Emery during a press conference.&nbsp;

Fifth-placed Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-0 in their most recent Premier League match, a result that will count for little if the Gunners fail to beat relegation-threatened Cardiff.&nbsp;

"If you win against Chelsea and you don't win tomorrow, you are losing three very important points," Emery said.

"Tomorrow we need to impose and to adapt. I think they're going to play with a big motivation, also and finding a lot of duels against us.

"We need tomorrow to be concentrated for the three points like we were against Chelsea."

Arsenal are negotiating to sign two players before the transfer window closes on January 31, but manager Unai Emery said they are not in the market for a defender despite a host of injuries to his back line.&nbsp;

The London club have been linked with a move for Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic and Barcelona winger Denis Suarez.&nbsp;

However, did not confirm if Ivan Perisic will join Arsenal despite Italian and British reporting that the 29-year-old Croatia international has handed in a transfer request to Inter Milan.&nbsp;

"I don't know exactly the players. I cannot said exactly which players (will join us) but they are players who can help us, and that can play as right or left winger,'' said Emery when asked about possible arrivals to the Emirates Stadium.&nbsp;

Arsenal coach Unai Emery said their prime focus is the Premier League but also confirmed they will play the Europa League with "great motivation." "Our focus now is very clear and it's the Premier League, it's our first (meaning main) focus," said Arsenal's coach Emery during a press conference.

Arsenal coach Unai Emery said their prime focus is the Premier League but also confirmed they will play the Europa League with "great motivation." "Our focus now is very clear and it's the Premier League, it's our first (meaning main) focus," said Arsenal's coach Emery during a press conference. Fifth-placed Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-0 in their most recent Premier League match, a result that will count for little if the Gunners fail to beat relegation-threatened Cardiff. "If you win against Chelsea and you don't win tomorrow, you are losing three very important points," Emery said. "Tomorrow we need to impose and to adapt. I think they're going to play with a big motivation, also and finding a lot of duels against us. "We need tomorrow to be concentrated for the three points like we were against Chelsea." Arsenal are negotiating to sign two players before the transfer window closes on January 31, but manager Unai Emery said they are not in the market for a defender despite a host of injuries to his back line. The London club have been linked with a move for Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic and Barcelona winger Denis Suarez. However, did not confirm if Ivan Perisic will join Arsenal despite Italian and British reporting that the 29-year-old Croatia international has handed in a transfer request to Inter Milan. "I don't know exactly the players. I cannot said exactly which players (will join us) but they are players who can help us, and that can play as right or left winger,'' said Emery when asked about possible arrivals to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal coach Unai Emery discusses transfers ahead of Premier League clash against Cardiff City

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