Wins for West Ham United and Manchester United on Wednesday evening have piled even more pressure on Arsenal ahead of Thursday’s clash against West Bromwich Albion.

The Gunners have won just two of their last seven Premier League games, slipping from the edge of the title race to the top of a chase for Champions League places.

Things only got worse on Wednesday as Manchester United beat Crystal Palace 2-0, closing the gap to the Gunners to just one point for at least 24 hours. Louis van Gaal faced the press after the win and, with his eyes on Champions League football, thinks Arsenal could struggle against West Brom.

“It is not an easy opponent because they will defend, probably, and it is always difficult,” the Dutchman said to the media. “You have seen Arsenal against Crystal Palace – it is always difficult.”

He isn’t the only manager thinking of catching the Gunners, with Slaven Bilic admitting he can’t say it’s over for West Ham. The Hammers spectacularly drew 3-3 with Arsène Wenger’s side just a couple of weeks ago and have won both games since.

“I’d stopped watching Arsenal because they were so far ahead. But you can’t say we have a good cushion on Southampton but that Arsenal are not there to be taken.

“When I say that it isn’t over as far as Southampton and Stoke are concerned, it isn’t over with Arsenal as well.”

With all that in mind, Arsenal have to rectify their form quickly. Three points against West Brom are necessary to boost the mood and dent the hopes of the chasing pack.