Wenger ‘convinced’ Gunners can see off Red Devils

The final-minute defeat at Bolton last weekend ended a 16-game unbeaten run, but too many draws had left the Gunners playing catch-up and also looking over their shoulders.

Arsenal head into tomorrow’s game against Premier League leaders Manchester United having seen their title dreams shattered following a run of just one win in seven games, which has dropped them down behind Chelsea into third place.

Manchester City – who would be just two points behind if they win a match in hand – are ready to take advantage of any more off days in Arsenal’s remaining four games.

A late rally from arch-rivals Tottenham could also challenge the Gunners’ right for more than a decade of playing among Europe’s elite. Wenger is determined that will not happen.

“We will be faithful to the attitude we have shown all season and we want to finish in the Champions League, which is not decided yet,” he said.

“We really have to watch Manchester City, because that (third place) is not done – even to be in the top four is not done. We have absolutely to fight like mad.

“It is not a massive concern, but if Tottenham come back, Manchester City will drop because they play each other or Chelsea will drop.

“Our focus is to win the games.

“We want to finish as close as possible to the top, it would be a shame not to do that.”

Wenger added: “Also if we win our games, you never know. If we can beat Manchester United, we come back to six points and after they play Chelsea, you never know they can be under pressure again.

“It is important for us to show we can beat them, and I am convinced we will.”

The Gunners boss has vowed to work to bring in fresh talent this summer, strengthening in key areas which have proved Arsenal’s Achilles heel – most notably at the centre of defence.

Arsenal have a poor record against United, winning only once in the past 11 meetings.