MIKEL ARTETA has told Arsenal’s fans to start believing they are going to win the Prem.
The Gunners have a four-point lead at the top but, crucially, are six clear of Manchester City — and seven above champions Liverpool.
Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville claims the league is already “Arsenal’s to win”.
The Gunners were last crowned champs in their Invincibles season of 2003-04.
This term they have been hailed for their set-piece dominance.
And ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup last-16 tie at home to Brighton, boss Arteta said: “When our people are excited and when you see the team is competing at the level consistently, there are the right reasons to believe.
“You want to win big trophies.
“You certainly have to instil that feeling amongst the team, the club and around it.
“We’re in a really good position at the moment but know how early it is and how difficult every game is.”
Eberechi Eze’s winner against his former club Crystal Palace on Sunday, following Declan Rice’s free-kick, was Arsenal’s ELEVENTH set-piece goal in all competitions this season.
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They have been criticised for their reliance on dead-ball situations to get them over the line — despite the fact rivals are now copying them.
Spaniard Arteta, 43, added: “A lot of things that we do, I’m sure teams will pick them.
“We do the same with the best teams in Europe doing certain things.
“If you find this could help and be a way to win more football matches, more than welcome.
“That’s the history of the human being.”
Arteta has a few injury concerns with centre-back William Saliba missing due to an ankle injury he picked up against Palace.
We’re in a really good position at the moment but know how early it is and how difficult every game is.”
Mikel Arteta
Forward Gabriel Martinelli will be rested but winger Bukayo Saka should be fit to start after illness.
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler insists his players will be ready for Arsenal’s set-piece threat.
He said: “You see the results of all this work.
“So it’s getting more important in the Premier League and we have to be ready.”
