Arsene Wenger out to avoid European play-off

Arsene Wenger accepts either Arsenal or Manchester United will have little option but to “deal with the consequences” of ending up in the Champions League qualifiers which can overshadow all pre-season preparations.

Arsenal, beaten at home by Swansea on Monday night, are currently two points clear of the Red Devils ahead of tomorrow’s showdown at Old Trafford.

If Wenger’s men, who hold a match in hand on their rivals, can avoid defeat, it would leave them all but certain of third place.