Gary Lineker has identified a potentially 'tricky' fixture that could derail Arsenal's Premier League title hopes, despite their recent victory over Newcastle United. The Gunners moved three points clear of Manchester City on Saturday with a 1-0 win at the Emirates, courtesy of Eberechi Eze's stunning finish. However, the former England striker believes that an away trip to West Ham on May 10 could prove decisive in the title race.
Arsenal's title push
Mikel Arteta's side had seen their lead at the top evaporate after losing two consecutive matches, including a crucial defeat against title rivals Manchester City. But with City occupied in the FA Cup over the weekend, Arsenal were able to regain top spot. They now have the opportunity to extend their lead to six points when they host Fulham this Saturday, before their rivals play again.
According to statisticians Opta, Arsenal are 72 per cent favourites to beat City to the title, largely due to their easier run-in. The Gunners face Fulham, West Ham, Burnley, and Crystal Palace, while City have to contend with Everton, Brentford, Bournemouth, Palace, and Aston Villa.
Lineker's warning
However, Lineker has cautioned that the trip to the London Stadium could be a stumbling block. Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, he said: 'Arsenal are just not really creating at the moment and they weren't like this in the first half of the season. They were so impressive so I don't know if it's nerves or a confidence thing but they look so edgy. Of course the result is the most important thing and they managed to get the three points.'
He added: 'They might go six points ahead of Man City before they play again and Arsenal's last four games are very winnable. They have Fulham at home and then West Ham away, now that will be tricky. West Ham are fighting for their lives and playing well at the moment. They've got pretty much as good a record as almost anyone since the turn of the year so that will be a tough one for Arsenal. Burnley at home, you'd strongly fancy Arsenal to win that one and then obviously Crystal Palace away on the final day of the season.'
Lineker concluded: 'So overall I would say Arsenal have got slightly easier fixtures than Man City but we know that City down the stretch are usually pretty good. I think it's pretty much 50-50, isn't it? I would say it's pretty much 50-50 between Arsenal and Manchester City.'
Upcoming challenges
Arsenal are currently focused on the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. After returning from the Spanish capital, they will then host Fulham, with City not in action again until travelling to Everton next Monday. The Gunners will be hoping to maintain their momentum and avoid any slip-ups against a resurgent West Ham side that is battling relegation alongside Tottenham.
