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Chelsea and Arsenal could face each other in Champions League play-off

Arsenal's Lukas Podolski celebrates his hat-trick against Wigan last night. Credit: Nigel French/EMPICS Sport

The Premier League has confirmed that Chelsea and Arsenal could have to play against each other at the end of the season to decide who qualifies directly for the Champions League group stage. Chelsea are currently third in the table while Arsenal are a place behind.

Arsenal beat Wigan 4-1 yesterday which means if the Gunners win their final game of the season and Chelsea draw, the teams will finish level on points. They could also finish equal on goal difference and goals scored so a play-off would be needed.

Only the team that finishes third qualifies for the Champions League group stage automatically, the fourth-placed team has to go through a qualifying round. The rules say the game would have to be played at a neutral venue.