Source: Team_Talk
Wenger predicts more shocks to come
Arsene Wenger believes this season's title contenders will continue to drop points because they are no longer able to overwhelm the also-rans.[LNB] With almost a third of the campaign gone there is a congested look to the top flight, with those challenging at the summit all having suffered surprise setbacks.[LNB]Wenger's Arsenal have been no exception, with their latest shock result coming in Sunday's 1-0 home defeat to promoted Newcastle.[LNB]The Gunners boss reckons the current trend is down to the so-called lesser clubs learning to maintain a high intensity for 90 minutes, telling Arsenal TV Online: "The level has gone up and I think the physical resistance of the teams who are a bit less good technically has become stronger.[LNB]"All the teams in the Premier League can remain disciplined for 90 minutes.[LNB]"Therefore, you have a little bit less difference made in the second half than years before."[LNB]Wenger claims the involvement of the top clubs in European competition is also a factor.[LNB]"I think it's going to continue because many teams have no real European cups in the week so can prepare fully," he said.[LNB]"The demands on the teams in Europe are very high and the level of the less prestigious teams in the Premier League has gone up, so I believe everybody will drop points."[LNB]That could make for an open title race, according to Wenger, who added: "Everybody else looks to be fighting and even Chelsea look like they will drop points."[LNB]Sunday was the second time Arsenal have failed to capitalise on a Chelsea slip-up this season, with the Blues going down 2-0 at Liverpool shortly after the Gunners were beaten by Newcastle.[LNB]September saw Chelsea lose at Manchester City, only for Arsenal to suffer a shock home defeat to West Brom.[LNB]With both playing again tonight, Wenger knows his side cannot afford to let the champions off the hook again.[LNB]Arsenal travel to Wolves, while Chelsea host Fulham in the west London derby.[LNB]Wenger is expecting a tough test at Molineux, where the Gunners won 4-1 last season before needing a stoppage-time goal to clinch the reverse fixture.[LNB]Wolves have also impressed during what has been a nightmare recent run of league and cup fixtures, including two trips to Manchester United, one to Chelsea and a home game against Manchester City.[LNB]Wenger said: "They are a robust side and they are technically good as well if you look at their passing ability.[LNB]"Against Manchester City and Manchester United, their passing was level with the better sides."
