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Paul Merson: 'Arsenal have to compete for Premier League title'

Paul Merson tells Arsene Wenger that Arsenal must contend for the Premier League title this season.

Arsene Wenger will face questions next summer if Arsenal do not compete for the Premier League title, according to former Gunners midfielder Paul Merson.

The North London side have claimed back-to-back FA Cups but have not won the league since 2004, and Merson insists that Wenger finally has a squad capable of winning.

He told Sky Sports News: "I would not put them as favourites, as this team have not won it before, so it is a different kettle of fish come next March.

"The thing is, Chelsea have been there and done it, whereas Arsenal haven't, and that is why if you see the bookmakers' prices Arsenal are a lot longer than Chelsea and [Manchester] City. And that is because they have not been in that situation before.

"However, if they are not contending come next April, then there have got to be serious questions asked, especially as they have bought a very good goalie."

Arsenal start their Premier League campaign against West Ham United next weekend.

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A general view of the outside of the stadium ahead of the Barclays Premier League match between Arsenal and Sunderland at Emirates Stadium on May 20, 2015
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