Wiltord did breach the defences again in the 70th minute, steering Henry’s cross-cum-shot beyond Schwarzer but the goal was ruled out for offside.

There was a real scare for the Gunners when Southgate steered a knock-back for Juninho to strike a powerful rising drive a yard over Taylor’s crossbar.

Eight minutes from time Henry wrapped up the game for the Gunners with a trademark free-kick from the left corner of the penalty area, bending it with power into the top right-hand corner.

Ehiogu attempted to inspire a come-back but Ljungberg blocked his shot on the line, then Franck Queudrue landed a free-kick on top of the net.