Mikel Arteta is hopeful that Arsenal’s easier run of fixtures and shortening injury list can reignite their title hopes over the hectic Christmas period. Arsenal currently find themselves nine points behind early Premier League leaders Liverpool and were winless in their last four league games prior to the international break.

Mikel Arteta has downplayed the gap between Arsenal and Liverpool at the top of the Premier League table and says there is no clear favourite for the title

COMMENT: Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta is set to welcome back some key squad members as to bring a welcome end to the Gunners' injury crisis.