Alan Smith: Arsenal’s defence stands them in good stead for title race (Interview for Newbettingsites.UK)

Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has told NewBettingSites.uk that he believes in Arsenal’s chances in the title race should they continue performing like they did in their 3-1 victory over league leaders Liverpool.

Read more on what he had to say below.

Arsenal will find themselves in a good spot should they continue their form

Smith established his confidence in Arsenal’s back line, and how their defensive structure could stand them in good stead in their bid for the Premier League trophy.

I think as time goes on, assuming Arsenal can continue to produce performances like they did against Liverpool, their odds to win the league will shorten. Obviously, the closer they get to the finish line, they’re bound to be considered contenders if they stay in the title race.

They’ve got that platform of a really good backline and a solid defensive structure throughout the entire team which will hold them in good stead. The question is whether they can score enough goals with the absence of a centre forward – that’ll be their main obstacle.

Going forward wasn’t so much of a problem last season – it was their defence that was the main weakness, so you’d imagine they’d find a way this season. As the season progresses and they stay in the race, their chances should increase.

Klopp has chosen the right time to leave

Following the news that Jurgen Klopp would be leaving his post as Liverpool manager at the end of the season, Smith shared his thoughts on Klopp and his team’s chances of winning a trophy this season.

I’m sure Klopp will want to go out with a bang and win the Premier League. He’s got a great chance to win a trophy in the Carabao Cup against Chelsea. He might want to go one or two better than that – in fact I’m sure he will!

I’d imagine winning the Premier League would be the main target over the Europa League. Whatever happens, he’ll go down as one of the great Liverpool managers and a big character the Premier League won’t forget in a hurry.

He’s done so much for Liverpool, and I think he’s chosen a good time to part ways with the club. He’s leaving a team that is in great health with the way he’s rebuilt that midfield – it could have easily gone the other way! He’s clearly handled the club with skill and they’re certainly in with a shout to get some silverware this season.

Pep Guardiola’s men should step with caution in pursuit of consecutive titles

Despite Smith stating that Manchester City winning the title feels like a “formality”, he mentions the importance of not taking anything for granted as anything can happen in the second half of the season.

It does feel at the moment as though Manchester City winning the title is a formality, but we should never assume or take things for granted in football – Pep Guardiola and City certainly won’t be. Anything can happen and injuries could always knock them off balance, but maybe that is wishful thinking!