Unai Emery says he remains ‘positive’ over Arsenal’s chances of a top four finish, despite seeing his side lose 1-0 at Everton on Sunday.
Veteran defender Phil Jagielka scored the game’s only goal at Goodison Park, a third consecutive win for the Merseyside club.
Defeat leaves Arsenal fourth, though London rivals Chelsea could overtake Emery’s side should they avoid defeat against West Ham on Monday night.
Despite just three points separating third-placed Tottenham and Manchester United in sixth, Arsenal boss Emery says he remains optimistic over his side’s chances of securing Champions League football.
“The two halves were very different,” Emery told BBC’s MOTD.
”First half we were consistent defensively but didn’t create a lot of attacking moments and they scored from a throw-in.
“In the second half we were better offensively but defensively there were more chances for them. We needed a change in the attacking third but I didn’t want to lose the balance defensively like we lost it.
“I’m as positive as I was before because I knew the game was going to be difficult.”