Mikel Arteta says Arsenal are “right in the mix” at the top of the Premier League despite their stumbles over the past two weeks.
 
The third-placed Gunners, hunting their first top-flight title since 2004, are five points behind leaders Manchester City after nine games, following a shock 2-0 defeat to Bournemouth and a 2-2 draw against Liverpool. 

They face a tricky away trip to Newcastle on Saturday, desperate to ensure the gap does not grow wider. Arteta, whose team have pushed City all the way in the past two seasons, was asked on Friday whether he was concerned over the points difference, with Liverpool also four points ahead.