Merse: Arsenal back in title race control despite dropping to second

Paul Merson has delivered a bold assessment of Arsenal's Premier League title prospects, insisting the Gunners are still firmly in control of their own destiny despite slipping to second place in the table.

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Arsenal saw Manchester City overtake them at the summit following City's hard-fought victory over Burnley, but Merson believes the fixtures still favour Mikel Arteta's side going into the final stretch of the season.

"Arsenal are in the driving seat," Merson said in his Sky Sports column. "People are panicking because they've dropped to second, but look at the run-in. City still have to play Liverpool, Arsenal have already beaten them. The Gunners have the easier schedule."

The Gunners' impressive victory over Liverpool earlier this week demonstrated their title-winning credentials, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard securing all three points against their closest rivals. The win kept them within touching distance of City at the top of the table.

Arteta's men have shown remarkable consistency this season, losing just three league matches since August. Their defensive record has been particularly impressive, conceding the fewest goals in the division alongside City.

"What Arsenal have done this season is incredible," Merson added. "They're a young team learning how to win. The experience they're gaining now will be invaluable if they push on next year."

The north London club face a testing run of fixtures that includes clashes with Tottenham and Manchester United, but Merson believes their superior goal difference could prove decisive if the title race goes down to the wire.

"Goal difference might decide it," the former Arsenal midfielder concluded. "City will drop more points. You can bet on that. And when they do, Arsenal must be ready to pounce."