Arsenal Ready for Tough Run-in, Says Van Persie

Robin van Persie feels Arsenal can win the battle for a Champions League spot next season despite having to face some of the league's toughest teams in the run-in, according to a Goal.com report.

Arsene Wenger's men, who boasted of a seven-match winning streak, were finally beaten over the weekend by Queens Park Rangers. That coupled with Tottenham's win over Swansea on Sunday means the two North London clubs are now level on points in third, with both Chelsea and Newcastle five points behind them.

The Gunners face Manchester City at home next week and the Arsenal captain admits his side must beat the Citizens to stay in the challenge for a Champions League spot.

"We have seven more games to play and I believe we can come third. It won't be easy, everyone is fighting for every point and our opportunity is next week against Man City. We have to go for it and believe and we will," Goal.com quoted van Persie.

"They are second but drew against Sunderland so they will need the points. We have seven big games to play but if you look at the big name teams then we have City and Chelsea. As a fan of football I always like to play those games and one of them is next week," the Dutchman added.

Arsenal face one of the toughest run-ins in their bid to finish in the top four as they host City on Sunday, Chelsea on 21 April and visit Stoke City a week after that.