Chelsea may be languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table, but Sunday’s game won’t be a walk in the park for Arsenal.

Last season the Blues ran away with the title, but a curious season and a desperate run of form has seen them sink to the outskirts of the relegation battle. They’ve parted ways with José Mourinho and haven’t lost in six league games since.

However, they’ve only won two of those six and have only won away from home twice all season. That, though, hasn’t convinced Arsène Wenger that the game will be straightforward.

“It’s a game (where) people will look at us and see how we behave,” said the Arsenal boss. By kick-off on Sunday the Gunners could find themselves behind Leicester City and Manchester City in the title race, and Chelsea will be a huge test.

“You look at their squad and we know it’s a big game because of the players on the pitch. It has a big importance to us as well.

“They are not in this title race, no, but they are direct rivals because of the quality of their team. They will be back, they are direct rivals.”

There’s no doubt that this clash is a fiery one, not just being a London derby but one between the two biggest clubs in the capital. With the quality in their side Chelsea will be back in the race before long, but this season provides a great opportunity to get one over them.

 

Wenger wouldn’t really be drawn on why things have gone so badly for the champions this season, but one thing’s for sure: his focus remains as high as it would be if Chelsea were challenging us his year.