Arsenal still in EPL title race – Raya

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya believes his side can catch Liverpool after closing the gap on the Premier League leaders.

Mikel Arteta’s second-placed side moved within four points of Liverpool thanks to their stirring fightback in Wednesday’s 2-1 win against arch rivals Tottenham.

Trailing to Son Heung-min’s early opener, the Gunners drew level through Dominic Solanke’s own goal before Leandro Trossard fired the winner on the stroke of half-time.

It was a much-needed victory for Arsenal, who had gone three games without one in all competitions — a frustrating streak that included an FA Cup third round exit against 10-man Manchester United and a League Cup semi-final first leg loss to Newcastle.

Liverpool are still title favourites as they hold a game in hand over Arsenal, but Raya is optimistic the north Londoners are capable of reeling in the leaders.

“Yes, of course. In football, everything can happen,” he said.

“Three weeks ago, people were saying that Liverpool had the title in their hands. But it is just football and everything changes in two or three matches.

“We have to focus on ourselves, try and win every game, and see where we are at the end of the season.

“We don’t want to think too far ahead because that will play badly against us. We have to live in the present, that’s the most important thing.”

On the eve of the north London derby, Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus learned he has an anterior cruciate ligament injury that could rule him out for the rest of the season.

The Brazilian forward’s absence, along with that of Bukayo Saka after hamstring surgery, has left Arsenal short of attacking options.

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But Raya said Arsenal’s collective mentality would help them cope with those injury blows.

“It was really, really important to come with a big, big mentality. We know how important the derby is, not just for the league, but for the people that follow us,” he said.

“We showed very big character throughout the game, especially when we went behind. We were a little bit stunned but after that, we dominated the whole first half.

“We got the rewards with two goals before half-time. I am very happy with the performance, for the lads, and for Gabriel Jesus, too. He has a massive injury. This win is for him.”

Arsenal take on Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday looking to avoid a repeat of last season’s 2-0 home defeat to Unai Emery’s men.

“We know how good Aston Villa are. We now just have to recover, train and be ready for Saturday because we know how tough it is going to be,” Raya said.