Arsenal can open up title lead over Liverpool in just over two weeks amid injury concerns

Last weekend felt like another big twist in the Premier League title race considering how Arsenal managed to respond to Liverpool's unexpected defeat at Crystal Palace.

While everyone knew that Palace are a good team under Oliver Glasner, there was an expectation that Liverpool would grind out another victory. But the heroics of former Gunner Eddie Nketiah secured the victory for the Eagles and allowed Arsenal an opportunity to close the gap - which they just about took.

The psychological boost Mikel Arteta's side will have received after performing a late turnaround to defeat Newcastle United cannot be underestimated, and even at this early stage, it feels as though the momentum is with the Gunners. Unfortunately for Arsenal, the international break is on the horizon, but in just over two weeks, there is a realistic chance that a four-point gap could emerge on the defending champions.

In midweek, Liverpool lost their star man Alisson Becker for a considerable period, which puts pressure on Giorgi Mamardashvili to fill his considerable gloves. Realistically, Arsenal have the easier fixture this weekend on paper, as they host struggling West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium.

Nuno Espirito Santo has replaced Graham Potter at the London Stadium and managed to secure his first point in charge with a draw at Everton on Monday night, but Arsenal will be seen as comfortable favourites to pick up a victory. Once the game in north London ends, Liverpool will be preparing to kick off across the city at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea welcome them.

The Blues are a far from ideal opponent for Arne Slot's side, and while they had a minor stumble in recent matches, they returned to winning ways on Tuesday night in the Champions League. Should Chelsea manage to inflict Liverpool's third defeat in a row, it will be the Gunners at the top of the pile heading into the international break with a one-point cushion.

Once Arsenal return to action on October 18, they would have the opportunity to inflict another psychological blow when they face Fulham a day before Liverpool are back in action. While the trip to Fulham is not a guaranteed win, were they to pull it off, they would be four points clear of their main rivals for the title.

Managers will argue that playing a day later than their title rivals does not make a big difference. But it is undeniable that there will be a tension in the air at Anfield on October 19 when Manchester United visit, especially if they go into the fixture with three straight losses under their belt.

There are plenty of 'ifs', 'buts' and 'maybes' before Arsenal are in a dominant position in the title race, but all Arteta's side can do is keep winning and hope it is Liverpool's time to sweat in the title race.

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