Per Mertesacker thinks Arsenal lacked the final ball in their 0-0 stalemate with Chelsea at the Emirates this weekend.
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The Blues put in a robust defensive display to frustrate and keep Arsene Wenger’s side at bay and meant Arsenal still sit ten points behind the league leaders, whilst it surely means they’ve conceded any faint hope of a first Premier League title since 2004.
The Gunners put in one of their best performances against Jose Mourinho’s side in recent seasons – especially considering the 6-0 nightmare suffered in the last campaign – but ultimately struggled to create the clear cut chances that saw them go on an impressive eight-game winning run before this game.
“We gave everything, had a couple of chances and defended well. It was a good performance, but not enough to get the vital three points we needed to compete for first place,” said Mertesacker, according to London Evening Standard.
“We deserved the point, but could have done better in the final third. We lacked the final pass maybe. I had a chance but I rushed myself.”
The German found himself unmarked in the box after the ball broke to him following a poor punch from Thibaut Courtois but he showed just why he’s not a striker, screwing the chance well wide.
The result means Arsene Wenger has still yet to beat Jose Mourinho in 13 attempts and Mertesacker says it also likely means Arsenal will miss out on the title for another season.
“Maybe the title is gone but you never know, we will stay there until the end.”
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