ARSENE WENGER has challenged Arsenal to seize control of the Premier League title race as the leaders kick-off a vital period with a trip to Liverpool on Saturday.
Wenger’s side retained pole position after second-placed Manchester City missed a chance to go top in their 1-0 defeat against Chelsea on Monday and the Gunners can cement their spot on top of the table with a victory at Anfield.
Arsenal, who are two points clear of City and third-placed Chelsea, have repeatedly been written off by pundits who don’t believe they have the mental strength to end the club’s nine-year trophy drought.
But Wenger is confident his players are ready to finally put some silverware in the Emirates Stadium trophy cabinet and sees their next two fixtures as the perfect opportunity to send a message to their title rivals.
Arsenal, who host Manchester United next weekend, have already beaten Liverpool in the league this season and head to Merseyside looking for a fourth win in their last five visits to Anfield.
“This is a massive month for us,” said Wenger, who hopes England midfielder Jack Wilshere can return from an ankle injury.
“When you are in a good position to fight for something, the closer you get to the end of the season, every game becomes vital and every point is important.
“We have fought very hard up until now to be in this position, so let’s enjoy it and do our best.
“I told you that one month ago there is no invincible team because there are so many quality sides in the Premier League.
“It is just how close you are to your best every time which decides the game.”
Liverpool’s potent attack will pose a significant test to Arsenal’s title credentials however.
Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge have 37 league goals between them in 35 appearances.
Uruguay forward Suarez has bagged 23 league goals this campaign and although none have come in matches against Arsenal, Chelsea or Manchester City, manager Brendan Rodgers expects his star to shine on Saturday.
“I think he has made an impact; he may just not have scored but he certainly scored in those games last season,” Rodgers said.
“He makes a great contribution to the team but the onus is not always on Luis to score the goals, it is the team.
“As long as he does his best and works hard I’ll have no complaints with that.”
