Arsenal finished second in the Premier League for the first time since 2005 as they beat relegated Aston Villa 4-0, thanks to an Olivier Giroud hat-trick which ensured the victory.
Giroud headed Arsenal ahead early on but the hosts played nervously until he struck again, sweeping home from six yards after good work by Mesut Ozil.
Arsenal had already been condemned as a club that loves fourth position, but her final performance and result gotten was a clear indication that the club is willing to cause upset in Europe next season.
The Frenchman was then put through by Hector Bellerin for his third.
Mark Bunn’s own goal, diverting in Mikel Arteta’s ricocheted shot, added further gloss to the scoreline.
The comprehensive win ensured Arsenal leapfrogged faltering Tottenham – title contenders only a few weeks ago – after their north London rivals fell apart against Newcastle.
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