Let's kick away from Everton and secure top-four spot, Wenger urges Arsenal ahead of Goodison Park showdown

By David Kent for MailOnline

Published: 04:57 EDT, 4 April 2014 | Updated: 06:34 EDT, 4 April 2014

Arsene Wenger wants his Arsenal team to pull away from Everton in the race for Champions League football with a victory at Goodison Park on Sunday.

Arsenal head to Merseyside four points ahead of fifth-placed Everton having played a game more, and Wenger knows a defeat at Goodison would be a devastating blow for their hopes of playing in the Champions League next season.

Asked if the game was a six-pointer, Wenger said: 'Yes, It's an opportunity to create distance from Everton. That's what this game is about. They are a good side that's why they are where they are.'

That way to Europe: Arsene Wenger is preparing his team for a huge game at Everton in the race for fourth

Slide: Arsenal are without a win in three games after their 6-0 thrashing by Chelsea

The Gunners are without a win in three Premier League outings while Everton have won their last five, but Wenger hopes his team can build some momentum of their own with a win this weekend, and perhaps still challenge for the title.

'I don't need to explain how important this game is for us,' Wenger said. 

'I believe we were a bit flat after the Swansea and Chelsea game so it was important not to lose against City. We can build on that against Everton.'

Salvation: Mathieu Flamini's equaliser earned Arsenal a point against Manchester City last time out

Under pressure: Arsenal are four points ahead of Everton but the Merseysiders have a game in hand

Full steam: Everton have won five games in a row to keep their Champions League dreams alive

Title-chasers: Brendan Rodgers has steered Liverpool seven points clear of Wenger's side

Arsenal are seven points behind league leaders Liverpool, but Wenger is confident that 'there are still a lot of twists and turns and no clear favourites.'

He added: 'Liverpool have the advantage because they do not have other games to play so their preparation is stable. 

'As long as there is a mathematical chance to win the title we won't give up. We are outsiders but if we don't fight for it we will be guilty.'

Wenger has also confirmed that Aaron Ramsey is back in the the squad for Sunday's game.

The Wales midfielder has not played since picking up a thigh injury against West Ham on Boxing Day.

Back in the fold: Arsenal welcome back Aaron Ramsey this weekend

The Arsenal manager said: 'Ramsey and Monreal back in the squad. Aaron has been out for a long time and just joined in yesterday but he's back in the squad.

'It's good we have him back as we have other midfielders out.'

Wenger also confirmed that Kieran Gibbs is a doubt because of an ankle injury, while Serge Gnabry is definitely out with knee trouble.

Struggling: Kieran Gibbs could miss Sunday's match with an ankle injury