At this point it feels a little like there isn’t much to play for as Arsenal approach the final few games of the season but Arsène Wenger is doing everything to ensure his players don’t lose focus.
The Arsenal boss faced the media on Friday morning to preview Sunday’s game against Crystal Palace. Just a few points separating Arsenal and Manchester United, who are currently on fifth, the focus may soon turn from a failed title bid to a fight for Champions League football.
“For everybody it’s tight, we have to look behind us because everybody is chasing,” the boss admitted to the media, but he hasn’t given up all hope of catching Spurs and Leicester City.
A draw at West Ham last weekend has left Arsenal 13 points off the top and six points from their north London rivals, albeit with a game in hand.
“As well, there can be twists and turns until the end and we want to fight to put pressure on teams in front of us.
“We need a strong run at home now and that’s what we want to do.”
Four of Arsenal’s last six games will be at the Emirates Stadium but, unfortunately, the side have only managed to win two of their last five home matches as the hope of winning the title has gradually slipped away. It would require a huge collapse from the Foxes for Arsenal to win the league now but Wenger isn’t only thinking about catching Spurs and qualifying for the Champions League.
“It is perceived the championship is over but I don’t think that completely, even if Leicester are in a very strong position.”
Well, at least someone still has some sort of faith in that. For the rest of us, the idea of Leicester throwing the title away has diminished entirely. Maybe, Arsène, it’s time to accept this is the one that got away.