Thomas Vermaelen targets third-place finish

Thomas Vermaelen has challenged his Arsenal teammates to win their remaining six games of the season to secure third spot.

The Gunners have won six of their last seven league games and have overtaken Tottenham Hotspur into third place in the table.

"That is what we play for, the battle for third place," said the Belgian defender. "That gives us direct qualification for the Champions League. That is very important for the club and is our main target.

"I hear it every day on the streets. Fans ask us to be above Tottenham. If we win every game, we will do it."

Vermaelen moved to the Emirates Stadium from Ajax in 2009.