Santi Cazorla believes that Arsenal can qualify for the top-four easily when they play against Tottenham Hotspur, who are currently fourth on the table.
The Gunners are five points behind Tottenham on fifth, but they defeated Spurs 5-2 in the last two derbies.
Cazorla has claimed that the three points, Arsenal would earn from this match, would prove fruitful for the rest of the season.
“It’s very important, not just because it is a great rivalry or that it’s Tottenham versus Arsenal, but the fact that they’re a side with great players who are fighting with us for a top-four spot,” he told Arsenal Player.
“To beat them and get into the top four and the Champions League, which is our aim for the season, is essential. We know how important it is and I hope we can rise to the challenge.
“Like everyone else, I’m really looking forward to the match against Tottenham and I hope we can achieve our goal of fighting for a Champions League spot. It’s going to be a really difficult game but a great match to watch.”
Cazorla scored his first north London derby goal in November, and he says it has been one of the highlights of his career.
“The week before we played Tottenham at home, I kept being told how we had to beat them because they were ‘the rival’ and our neighbours,” he said. “I’d never experienced such a great derby before and it was fantastic to be part of it.
“It was a good all-round performance. As you know, Adebayor’s sending off made it easier for us as they had already gone ahead. It was tough, but facing 10 men for the majority of the game allowed us to beat them.
“I remember the game well: I scored and it was my first derby. It was also a great victory for the fans. I hope things go the same way as that game!”
It is certain dat we will qualify for Champions League next season.