Olivier Giroud inspires Arsenal's rout of West Ham

Arsenal cemented their position in the English Premier League's top four as Olivier Giroud's blistering strike inspired a 3-0 rout of West Ham on Saturday.

Arsene Wenger's third-placed side are aiming to qualify for the Champions League via a top-four finish for the 18th year in a row and they are well on course after a fifth successive league victory.

It was also ideal preparation for the Champions League last-16 trip to Monaco, who hold a 3-1 lead from the first leg.

Giroud broke the deadlock seconds before the break to lash an unstoppable left-footed shot into the far corner. Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey got Arsenal's second in the 81st minute when he played a one-two with Giroud. Mathieu Flamini came off the bench to seal the points with an 84th minute goal.

Aston Villa's revival under new manager Tim Sherwood gathered pace as they boosted their bid to avoid relegation with a crucial 4-0 win at fellow strugglers Sunderland, goals coming from Christian Benteke and Gabriel Agbonlahor who netted a brace each.

Villa striker Benteke said: "I think we are playing with more freedom since the manager took over."