Thursday 1 October 2015 13:56, UK
Arsenal must make a statement about their title ambitions against Manchester United on Sunday, says Alan Smith.
A 5-2 win at Leicester moved Arsenal to within three points of Premier League leaders United last weekend.
However, the Gunners have already tasted defeat to title holders Chelsea this season and Smith says it is time Arsenal struck a blow against one of the division's top sides.
"This is a great chance to stick a flag in the sand and to announce themselves as title challengers," Smith told Sky Sports.
"It was only a matter of weeks ago [after the Chelsea defeat], we thought there was no chance of that happening. But it's been a funny old start to the season from that point of view.
"The Chelsea defeat was disappointing. It all got clouded with the sendings off but after a good start Arsenal didn't play particularly well, they lost momentum and Chelsea dominated.
"But Arsenal will feel, on their own turf, they've got a good chance against United after that great win at Leicester. And with Alexis Sanchez back in form, there's an opportunity to really get at United."
Anthony Martial continued his fine start to life with Manchester United with an assist in their 3-0 win over Sunderland and Smith says Gabriel may return to the Arsenal starting XI to contain the Frenchman, following his suspension against Leicester.
This is a great chance for Arsenal to stick a flag in the sand and to announce themselves as title challengers.
"I like Gabriel and I think he can make a good partnership with Laurent Koscielny," said Smith. "He's obviously much quicker and more aggressive than Per Mertesacker.
"Against Martial it might be that Arsene Wenger prefers that little bit of pace. Gabriel does look as if he can nail down a place at Arsenal so it might be that he brings him back.
"At the other end, Manchester United have obviously defended really well more often than not but I don't think they've got the best back four in the world by any stretch.
"They'll be scared by the likes of Theo Walcott if he's supplied with the ammunition, with the passes.
"I would imagine they would defend fairly deep and make it difficult for Arsenal to get in behind, but it's going to be a fascinating clash."
