.... Arsene Wenger knows Champions League football next season would strengthen Arsenal's hand in their bid to extend Robin van Persie's contract.
The Gunners head to West Brom on Sunday needing victory to secure third place, and rob Newcastle (and Spurs).
The future of captain Van Persie, who has plundered 30 league goals, remains subject for speculation, with the Dutchman set to talk with the club ahead of departure to Euro 2012.
Asked if guaranteeing Champions League football would make it easier to convince Van Persie to sign an extension to his current deal which still has a year to run, Wenger said:"On my side I am inclined to think 'yes', but you should ask him. I don't know whether it will have an influence on him."