Bendtner header leaves Everton sweating on Europe

Everton missed the chance to secure a place in next season's UEFA Cup when they were beaten 1-0 by Arsenal in the Premier League this afternoon.

Nicklas Bendtner headed the only goal after 77 minutes against a stubborn Everton side who needed just a draw to guarantee finishing fifth.

Defeat means Everton can be overtaken by Aston Villa if they lose at home to Newcastle United on the final day of the league season next Sunday. Villa need to win at West Ham United to have any chance of overhauling Everton.

Arsenal moved on to 80 points, one behind second-placed Chelsea who play at Newcastle tomorrow knowing defeat would hand the title to Manchester United.