Resilient Arsenal Still In The Title Race - Here's Why

The north London derby was the first game in a run of 'must win' fixtures for Arsenal, and they passed with flying colours.

Tomas Rosicky repaid Arsene Wenger's faith with a second minute goal that left Tottenham goalkeeper rooted to his spot. However, apart from that there was not much to report in the game, or at least for the Gunners. Watching the game, it was clear that the message from Wenger was very much "hold what we have".

It was a gritty performance from Arsenal's back four, especially their ever reliable pair Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny, who have been like a brick wall for the club this season. Their defensive performances have been the main reason they find themselves still in the hunt for silverware this season, in my eyes, so the pair deserve enormous credit.

Yes Arsenal are outsiders for the title, but that doesn't have to be seen as a bad thing.

Jose Mourinho has been trying to deflect pressure away from Chelsea for months now, though many see them as front runners, and the Portuguese coach is preparing his players for a clash with Arsenal. Then, Manchester City arrive at the Emirates.

For me, these two game are the season-defining fixtures, and if Arsenal win both then they will be very much in the mix. A win would help eradicate Manchester City's games in hand, also. 

With Aaron Ramsey edging ever closer to a return he could be the catalyst the club needs heading into a run of massive Premier League games.

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