The title race is evenly poised at the moment with just 2 points separating the top three, with Everton Liverpool and Newcaslte slightly further off the pace.

Yet Pires doesn't consider Liverpool and Newcastle to be real contenders, saying ""For me, there are three teams who are capable of stopping us winning the title.

"Manchester United are still our main rivals but Chelsea have come back to their best form and are not in the Champions League, which could help them. Physically the European matches are very draining.

"I also think Everton have a real chance. They are a very dangerous side and they have really surprised me this season."

Is that because Arsenal have so far failed to beat any of the three teams Pires mentions? Or is it just because he is trying to play mind games for his club?