Wenger admits to ‘big setback’

ARSENE WENGER’S rueful expression told its own story as he beat a weary retreat from Stamford Bridge. The Arsenal manager had conceded his side’s title challenge was on the brink of collapsing and that harsh reality was starting to sink in.

Arsenal’s capitulation to a Didier Drogba-inspired Chelsea has left the Gunners languishing six points behind Manchester United. It is a far cry from the heady days when the north Londoners led United by five points just over a month ago.

They have lost their nerve with the finish line in sight, failing to win any of their last five matches, and Wenger knows they have handed Alex Ferguson’s side the initiative.