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Football London
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Connor O'Neill

Valencia's Kevin Gameiro aims dig at Arsenal ahead of Europa League semi-final second leg

Kevin Gameiro believes that Arsenal's leaky defence will hand his Valencia side the chance to reach the Europa League final on Thursday night.

The Gunners have conceded 11 times in their last five games, but come into the second-leg with a 3-1 lead from the first-leg at the Emirates a week ago.

But despite their commanding lead, Gameiro, who won the Europa League three times with Unai Emery during their time at Sevilla, believes his side are more than capable of overturning the deficit.

“We're going to have chances, sure. Arsenal play football and leave spaces. We are going to have chances. And two goals will be enough," the Frenchmen said.

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Kevin Gameiro is ready to knock Arsenal out (Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

“I have not had Emery as coach for a long time. [But] I know he will be ready.

"Going back to your old house, you will want to reach the final.

"We cannot hesitate and need to start this game strongly. It is never easy to play in a stadium with a hot atmosphere.

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"For us it is much simpler. The support of the people gives you special encouragement. We have to look only at ourselves and if we play our game, we will win.

"I love these type of games.”

But after Sunday's draw with Brighton, the Gunners now know that Europa League glory is their only possible route into next season's Champions League, and it's a fact acknowledged by the Valencia forward.

“It is one more motivation for them - they must win this cup to reach the Champions League,” Gameiro said.

“If we finish fourth and reach the final and win it, I am happy. ”

For all your latest Arsenal news, opinion, analysis and transfer gossip, click here

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