Former Gunners Striker Alan Smith Unconvinced about Arsenal's Title Hopes

Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith believes the fact that Arsenal are being treated as underdogs for the Premier League title will play in their hands as it may alleviate the level of pressure from their shoulders.

The Gunners are top of the league following their 2-0 win over Fulham in the weekend and have put pressure on Chelsea to replicate the result, failing which will come as a real blow to their title hopes, with the top especially congested with Manchester City also winning their game against Cardiff City.

Arsenal have been written off by pundits as outsiders for the title, with City currently favourites to lift the trophy once again after the 2011/12 season.

The main criticism of Arsenal have been that they have failed to beat the big teams on a conistent basis and have been outgunned by the two Manchester clubs on their travels this season, which has raised questions over their credibility.

Their 6-3 los to United was followed by a drab 0-0 draw against Chelsea but the Gunners have responded well, winning six on the trot in all competitions. Smith believes that the Gunners have a chance to go all the way but may falter when the going gets tough.

"I don't think Arsenal will mind [not being title favourites] too much. They'll be able to stay under the radar and keep in touch with Manchester City and Chelsea," Smith said.

"I suppose [they aren't considered favourites] because of what's happened before and the fact they haven't been able to stay the course. They haven't been able to beat any of the big boys, which they still haven't done this season.

"[This season] as a football club they're in a better position to stay in the challenge but, if you asked me now, would they win it or would Manchester City win? I would have to plump for City, unfortunately, because they've got a stronger [squad]," he concluded.