Arsenal may be out of the Champions League but their proud, defiant, and sparkling performance in a 3-0 victory over AC Milan continues the recent momentum that will make them favourites to return to the competition next season; even if the frustration of an early exit will sting for a while.

IT IS DOUBTFUL Sheikh Mansour had nights of glory in the Carling Cup in mind when he sanctioned Manchester City’s lavish spending spree. Yet trophies possess a certain lustre, and City’s wealth of talent are well aware they are capable of winning any competition they put their mind to.

Arsenal tonight completed the £15m signing of Southampton winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.