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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Neil McLeman

Valencia's Kevin Gameiro takes aim at Arsenal ahead of Europa League semi-final

France forward Kevin Gameiro has claimed Arsenal's leaky defence will gift Valencia the chances to reach the Europa League final on Thursday.

The Gunners take a 3-1 lead to the Mestalla as they bid to win their first European trophy for 25 years.

But the Frenchman, who won the Europa League three times with Unai Emery at Sevilla and also with Atletico Madrid last season, insists the La Liga side can overturn their first leg deficit.

He said: “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.

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

Mustafi is also returning to his former stomping ground (Getty Images)

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"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.

"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.”

The Frenchman is confident of a fifth Europa League final (Manuel Queimadelos Alonso)

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While sixth-placed Valencia can still finish fourth in La Liga, Arsenal need to win the Europa League to return to the Champions League.

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

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

While Arsenal stumbled to a 1-1 draw with Brighton at the weekend, Los Che crushed Huesca 6-2 in Spain - despite resting the likes of Rodrigo Moreno and Goncalo Guedes.

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