Arsenal moved eight points clear at the top of the Premier League with a routine home win against managerless Crystal Palace.
The Gunners, who are aiming to become champions for the first time since 2003-04, took the lead at the Emirates Stadium thanks to Gabriel Martinelli’s left-footed strike – his sixth goal in six league appearances.
Bukayo Saka doubled the lead, catching Ben White’s pass and curling an effort past 19-year-old keeper Joe Whitworth.
Granit Xhaka made it 3-0 with a first assist through Leandro Trossard’s assist, before Jeffrey Schlupp netted one from close range after a corner for Palace’s first goal in five matches.
But the excellent Saka restored Arsenal’s three-goal advantage with a guided finish from the back of Kiernan Tierney to seal the victory.
Arsenal have 69 points from 28 appearances, with second-placed Manchester City beating Burnley 6-0 in Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final on 61 after playing one game less.
Palace, which sacked coach Patrick Vieira on Friday have not won in 13 games in all competitions and just three points above the relegation zone.
More soon.
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