Wenger refuses to push the panic button
Man United beat Sunderland 4-0 on Wednesday to move ahead of the Gunners, who drew 0-0 away at Portsmouth.
But Wenger said: ‘‘I prefer to be in front, but with one point difference that is not that big a deal. We have only lost one game so you will have problems to convince me that we are in a crisis. If we do six months again and lose no games we will be champions.
‘‘Although a 0-0 draw is a disappointment it is not too bad.
‘‘I believe that if we just try and focus on our performances and get a good result at Everton (in Arsenal’s next game) and then everything is alright.’’
Arsenal defender Gael Clichy echoed Wenger’s sentiments and insisted the title will be within Arsenal’s grasp if they maintain their level of performances in the second half of the season.
He said: ‘‘It’s a shame we couldn’t stay top until the New Year but that’s the way it is. Manchester United are a strong side, Liverpool and Chelsea as well.
‘‘We know the race for the title is going to be tough. United went in front of us but let’s do a good job at Everton at the weekend. We can be first again in the New Year. It would be great for us and for the fans.’’
Meanwhile Robin van Persie will not be fit to return against the Toffees tomorrow — and captain William Gallas is a doubt for the trip to Merseyside.
The Dutch striker made his first start for two months against Steaua Bucharest on December 12 after a long-term knee injury and came on as a substitute against Chelsea four days later.
He was sidelined for the north London derby with what was described by Arsene Wenger as a ‘‘little muscular problem, but a very minor one’’.
Van Persie was expected to feature at Everton but that is no longer the case. To make matters worse, Gallas suffered an injury against Portsmouth on Boxing Day.
‘‘Van Persie will not play on Saturday,’’ confirmed Wenger. ‘‘We don’t know about Gallas yet. He got a kick on his foot late in the first half.’’
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
