Ray Parlour: Arsenal Two Players Short of Title Challenge

Gunners legend Ray Parlour has played down Arsenal's title ambitions following their win over Manchester City for the Community Shield on Sunday.

The north London club put in a virtuoso performance in the first-half to brush aside City, but did look a little shaky in the second-half. Another thing in Arsenal's favour was the Citizens' much changed squad as they were missing most of their first team players for the game.

However, the former Arsenal winger hopes that the win has given Arsene Wenger's men more belief and confidence ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.

"City were missing lots of players, they had maybe seven first-team players out of the side," Parlour told talkSPORT.

"Arsenal were excellent in the first half, they showed all the qualities they have, and Arsene Wenger will be delighted. Hopefully, it has given them a bit of confidence and belief, but I am still with the bookies."

Parlour feels that the two Manchester clubs along with Chelsea are ahead of Arsenal and they will be the clubs fighting for top honours come the end of the season.

"Chelsea, Man City, Man United will be a lot stronger this season and Liverpool have had a great pre-season. It is such a competitive league," the Englishman added.

Even though Wenger has brought in four new players and the squad looks stronger this season, Parlour feels that the Gunners are still short of a couple of players. He says even though Arsenal fans and a few neutrals are giving Arsenal hope for the title, he will stick to the bookies predictions.

"I still feel Arsenal need a couple more players. I think the bookies get it right a lot of the time. Man City, Chelsea and Man United, who are third favourites, are the three to beat probably," Parlour concluded.