Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen says they're determined to keep hold of third place.

With Tottenham picking up just one point from the last 12, third spot - and an automatic place at Europe's top table - is now suddenly Arsenal's for the taking.

Vermaelen, 26, said: "We certainly won't be looking at Tottenham, only ourselves. We have some difficult games. Everyone can beat everyone else in this league and, of course, we had a few ups and downs earlier in the season.

"Being in the Champions League is very important and we know finishing third gives you straight qualification for it.

"Finish fourth and you have to play a qualifier. But it's not going to be easy because there are still a lot of games to play. We'll just stay focused and see how far we go."