Five points behind Leicester City heading into the weekend, Arsenal can’t afford to lose more ground on the Foxes.

The title race is still open, but a loss at the weekend would surely end Arsène Wenger’s hopes of winning a first Premier League title since 2004.

“I think Arsenal can win the league but that depends how well they do in the crucial games,” said Gilberto Silva, who knows a think or two about winning the league. “Leicester is one of them and from now on every point Arsenal drop will make Leicester believe more.”

The Brazilian midfielder scored against Leicester City in the unbeaten season, and played in the final day win which sealed a league campaign without defeat. This Leicester side, however, is completely different story. Spurred on by the attacking exploits of Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez, Claudio Ranieri’s men are on fire.

“It’s important for Arsenal to have a very defensive mind considering what Leicester can do,” Gilberto added. “They must mark well throughout the whole field from the guys up front to the midfield protecting the back four.

“They must close the space because we all know what a great job [Jamie] Vardy has done this season. That starts from the front and it is important to mark well as a team.”

With away games against West Ham United, Manchester United, Manchester City, Spurs and Everton yet to come, the Gunners have to have strong home form between now and the end of the season. That starts on Sunday.