Mikel Arteta issues honest assessment of title race after Arsenal beat Chelsea

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Mikel Arteta believes the title run-in has already started after Arsenal re-established their lead at the top. The Gunners overcame Chelsea 2-1 to grow their lead over Manchester City back to five points, albeit having played a game more.

More twists and turns are expected, with Arsenal now having nine games of the season to play. Asked for his verdict, Arsenal boss Arteta suggested that the race had already begun.

Speaking to Sky Sports , he said: "We had that feeling for a long time [the run-in has started]. That feeling when you have to continue to win and win and win. You win so many games and it is not enough to open the gap. That is the beauty of this league."

William Saliba had given Arsenal the lead against Chelsea , only for a Piero Hincapie own goal to level matters just before the break. Arsenal eventually got over the line with Jurrien Timber's strike, while Pedro Neto became the latest to be sent off for the Blues.

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Arteta praised his side but believed that the margin of victory should have been more emphatic. He said: "Big win, I'm very happy. For big periods the team performed in an excellent way, the margin should have been bigger at half-time.

"The moment we conceded was painful, but the quality of Chelsea... After their red card we should have managed that situation better but we will talk about this tomorrow.

"They have so much quality, even when they use the keeper they can get out of situation with 10 men. We didn't adjust too well, sometimes you take things for granted. Something to improve there.

"They [Chelsea] have players who can occupy various spaces - Cole [Palmer] can play false nine and occupy these spaces, he needs just one square metre to turn and activate players. they have quality, big personalities, they are really well coached. They are so good a turning in tight spaces, Caicedo, Enzo [Fernandez], Cole. It's impressive, they are a top side."

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Arsenal used one of their most profitable weapons against Chelsea - their set-piece prowess. Both Saliba and Timber netted from corners - with Arsenal now having scored from a record 16 corners this term.

On what sets Arsenal apart when it comes to set pieces, Arteta said: "Like anybody else. Attacking and defending. You know exactly what they are going to do but they do it that well it is an absolute nightmare to defend against."

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