LONDON, (AFP) - Thierry Henry ensured Arsenal retained hope of finishing the season in the top four of the Premiership by leading his side to a 3-0 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Monday. The relegated Black Cats, who are still without a win at home all season, held their own for almost half an hour but fell behind when defender Danny Collins headed a Henry free-kick into his own net. The Gunners' captain then set up Cesc Fabregas for Arsenal's second before contributing a goal of his own, curling a 43rd-minute free-kick over the wall and into the net.

The win moves Arsenal back to within four points of fourth-placed Tottenham.

If Arsenal beat Manchester City on Thursday, Spurs will have to win away to West Ham on Sunday, the final day of the season, to hold on to the final Champions League qualifying spot.

The battle will however be rendered redundant if Arsenal win this season's Champions League final against Barcelona in Paris on May 17.

In that case, Arsenal will be ensured of a return to Europe's top competition along with the top three in the Premiership, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool.