Arsenal legend Paul Merson has said it would be hard to catch Liverpool in this season’s Premier League title race.

Arne Slot’s men are five points clear at the top going into the November international break.

The Reds beat Aston Villa 2-0 on Saturday night after Brighton stunned Manchester City 2-1 at the Amex.

Chelsea and Arsenal are nine points behind, following a 1-1 draw between both teams at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Speaking after the game, Merson said: “So it is a start, but as Arteta says, he has to get the players fit now.

“They have to go on a run and make sure it comes down to six points before it goes up to 12 points – if it gets to 12, it is good night. It is going to be hard to catch Liverpool though.”

EPL title: Merson names team that will be hard to catch after Arsenal, Chelsea draw