Arsene Wenger believes the momentum is with Arsenal in the battle to claim a place in European soccer’s Champions League next season.
Wenger’s Arsenal side moved back up to third place following a 1-0 victory at relegated Queens Park Rangers, two points clear of Chelsea ahead of their trip to face Manchester United.
Unbeaten in eight games, the Gunners have two games remaining and the manager believes maximum points will ensure his side finish in the top four.
“We are on a very strong run,” said the manager. “We are ready for a fight and the team is highly focused to do it.
“Definitely, the momentum is there. If you look at the points we have made compared to two months ago, we are going for it and we make the points.
“Away from home, we have won everywhere. We have also had lots of derbies and they are difficult to win.
“I cannot even tell you what results I wish for from the others (Tottenham and Chelsea). A long time ago, we focused on us getting the maximum points.
“We have done that nearly because we dropped two points against Everton and Manchester United but we want to win every game and we want to concentrate on doing that.”
Theo Walcott struck the decisive goal against QPR after just 20 seconds, following up his strike against Manchester United last time out for his 20th of the season.
It was the fastest goal of the English Premier League season.
And Wenger believes the winger’s scoring return is a reflection of his growing maturity.
“He is 24 now – he is a mature player. He has improved his finishing; he is an improved player,” said Wenger.
But Wenger admitted his side had shown some nerves as they were made to work hard for the win by a Rangers side who are facing next season playing in the Championship.
Harry Redknapp was impressed by his side’s response after the disappointment of being relegated.
“Their heads could have dropped after that start, but they put in a shift and were fantastic. I was really pleased with the display,” said the QPR boss.
“It’ll be a different team next year. People keep on about lack of spirit. It’s been a lack of other stuff. We’ve not lacked spirit.”
