Mertesacker: We need to spend

Defender Per Mertesacker has urged Arsene Wenger to spend in the transfer window so Arsenal can last the distance as the Barclays Premier League title race hots up heading into 2014.

The Gunners moved back to the top of the table as they came from behind to win 3-1 at West Ham, where midfielder Aaron Ramsey limped off with a thigh strain which will see the Wales international miss the remaining festive fixtures.

There is little respite for Arsene Wenger’s squad as they head to Newcastle tomorrow.