Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal hailed their strikers after victory at Europa League semifinal opponents Valencia.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hit a hat-trick and Alexandre Lacazette also netted for the 4-2 win. The Gunners reach the final 7-3 on aggregate.

Monreal said of Aubameyang: "We needed him and we needed Laca. We are so proud of him because he's scored three goals in a semi-final. He's helped us a lot but it's not only him, it's every player. He scored a hat-trick, so we are all really happy for him.

"Our target is to play in the Champions League next season.

"Unfortunately we couldn't finish in the Premier League top four, but now we have a good chance. I can't remember the last time we played in a European final - 2006 against Barcelona? Now we have a good opportunity to finish the season with a trophy and play in the Champions League next season."