Arsene Wenger believes Manchester City have their "vulnerabilities" and has challenged Arsenal to fight for the title.
The Gunners are 12 points behind leaders City, who are eight clear ahead of the chasing pack led by Manchester United.
However, Wenger rejected the notion everyone else was playing for second place behind Pep Guardiola’s side, who are so far unbeaten having won 12 of their opening 13 games.
“It’s too early to say that,” he said. “I feel that every team has its vulnerabilities, even Manchester City. They had a good start but it’s too early. We are in November and you win the championship in May.”
With Ozil and Alex Iwobi, who is suffering with a dead leg, both doubtful, Jack Wilshere could make his first League start for Arsenal since May 2016.
The 25-year-old is also out of contract next summer but has repeatedly expressed his desire to stay should he force his way back into contention.
“If I think his best interest is to stay here then I will absolutely fight 100 per cent for him to stay here because he’s a guy who is top-quality and is back fit now,” said Wenger. “For me, when you have a top-quality player, you want him to be at Arsenal.”
