Mikel Arteta has given his thoughts on whether Arsenal are in a relegation battle.
The Gunners sit 15th in the Premier League just four points above Fulham in 18th, having registered only four points in their opening four games.
One of the few teams below them are West Brom, whose newly appointed manager Sam Allardyce said he believes that Arsenal are relegation contenders.
"Absolutely," said the former Bolton and West Ham boss to BBC Sport when asked if he views the FA Cup holders as rivals for the drop.
"They haven’t won a Premier League game for almost double figures (one win in 10).
"Getting beaten last night (4-1 against Manchester City), even though not in Premier League drains confidence of Arsenal’s players. They will be wondering what has hit them."
Speaking in his press conference, Mikel Arteta admitted that Arsenal's next three games against Chelsea, Brighton and West Brom themselves are vital for ensuring the Gunners don't become relegation strugglers.
"Yes absolutely," he said when asked if the festive period was crucial.
"I think the next seven to eight days are going to be crucial to see where are going to be heading in the Premier League for us."
Back-to-back away wins against fellow strugglers Brighton and West Brom would live the Arsenal comfortably clear of the drop zone.
However, given that they have not won in the Premier League since November 1st, it is difficult to see how they will be able to turn things around without a drastic pick up in the quality of performances.
Arteta is the bookies favourite to be the next manager to lose his job, and if he is unable to pick up any results over the festive period, then that could seal his fate.
.png?w=600)
