Arsenal not title challengers yet - Puel

Claude Puel has played down Arsenal’s Premier League title credentials despite their fine recent form under new boss Unai Emery.

After losing his first two games in charge, Umery’s side host Puel’s Leicester on Monday evening looking to secure their 10th successive victory in all competitions.

That fine run has lifted the Gunners up to fifth in the Premier League, five points behind leaders Manchester City, with the supporters hoping they can mount a sustained title challenge.

Puel has urged caution though, suggesting their recent good form isn’t enough to prove they are ready to compete for the title just yet.

“We will see,” said Puel, when asked about Arsenal’s title chances. “He started with some difficulties and lost [the] first two games but after they have worked and played well to win games in the cup, Europa League and Premier League.

"They have nine wins at this moment which is incredible. They are confident in their play. They are more direct and clinical at the moment, with a clinical player like [Alexandre] Lacazette for example.

“They can have good confidence for the future, but for the title I don't know. It is just the beginning of the season and the Premier League has a lot of possibilities."

Puel did, however, praise Emery for the positive start he has made at the Emirates Stadium after replacing such an established manager in Arsene Wenger.

The Frenchman has also detected a slight change in approach from the Gunners under Emery compared to when Wenger was in charge.

"He has done a fantastic job,” added Puel. “It is not easy to take the team after Arsene Wenger.

"Starting this season with a new manager and perhaps a lot of pressure, their beginning of the season has been fantastic and I have a lot of respect for this manager and the quality of his work.

“Perhaps Arsene wanted a little more possession in his game and perhaps it is more direct with Emery. Two different but good philosophies and styles of game.”