Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane believes Arsenal ‘seem prepared for the challenge’ in this season’s interesting title race, with Mikel Arteta’s team holding onto top place because of Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City.
Arsenal had seemed likely to lose points against Thomas Frank’s determined Brentford after Yoane Wissa equalized Declan Rice’s early goal at the Emirates on Saturday evening.
But Kai Havertz headed in Ben White’s pass in the 86th minute to secure a thrilling win for the Gunners, the team’s eighth in a row, putting Arteta’s men at the top of the Premier League table after 28 matches.
Both Liverpool and City had the chance to overtake Arsenal in Sunday’s important match at Anfield but they ended up sharing points after Alexis Mac Allister scored from the penalty spot in response to John Stones’ initial goal.
The outcome leaves second-placed Liverpool now behind Arsenal based on goal difference, while City – last year’s treble winners – are one point behind their title contenders in third place.
‘Honestly, I can’t predict it. Last year I always believed that City would eventually win,' former United and Republic of Ireland midfielder Keane said in the Sky Sports’ studio after the draw on Merseyside.
I’m now questioning them a little bit. I’m not ruling them out but Liverpool today, their performance, they’re creating chances, scoring goals.
‘And you look at Arsenal now, physically, compared to last year, Arsenal look a much stronger team so I don’t think they will fade on that side of it.
‘Of course they will [have learned from last season]. The recruitment, the players they’ve brought in, they’ve added strength to them and added quality and it’s just the physical side of it.
I’ look at Arsenal, their mindset, and they look ready for the challenge so I don’t know who to go with this year.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, meanwhile, said the reigning champions would be considered ‘strong favourites’ to win the Premier League trophy if they defeat the north London club later this month.
‘I think if City beat Arsenal then they will be really strong favourites. I do think that,’ Carragher said.
‘I think if Arsenal go there and get something then we’re having the same conversation.
‘I do feel like Arsenal and Liverpool would need a three or four-point gap going into the last five or six games of the season if they wanted to topple City.’
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