Alan Shearer has cautioned Arsenal against worrying about their Premier League title rivals too early in the season. The Gunners currently sit top of the table after 11 matches, four points ahead of Manchester City and eight clear of Liverpool.
Arsenal have won eight, drawn two and lost just one league game so far. Their only defeat came at Anfield against Liverpool. However, before the international break, they were held to a dramatic 2-2 draw at Sunderland, conceding a late equaliser from Brian Brobbey.
Despite the setback, Shearer insists it is not time for panic. Speaking to Betfair, the former Newcastle striker said: 'This is not a time for Arsenal fans to be concerned when it comes to winning the Premier League. I wouldn't say that Arsenal’s result [at Sunderland] will scare them when it comes to looking over their shoulder at Manchester City.'
Shearer acknowledged that Manchester City will always pose a threat, but believes Arsenal have what it takes to mount a strong challenge. He added: 'I think those players and Mikel Arteta have been in the game long enough to know that you'd be a fool to write Pep Guardiola off. I think they'll make a real good fist of it this time.'
After the international break, Arsenal face a tough run of fixtures including north London derbies against Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, as well as a Champions League trip to Bayern Munich. Mikel Arteta will be hoping his squad can maintain their lead at the top as they chase their first league title since 2004.
