Nasri optimistic of title tilt

Nasri optimistic of title tilt

Published Nov. 16, 2010 8:31 a.m. ET

Samir Nasri is optimistic it could be Arsenal's turn to win the Premier League title after a weekend of favourable results for the Gunners.

Arsene Wenger's side registered a second away win in three days on Sunday when they followed up their success at Wolves with a 2-1 triumph at Everton.

It followed on from Manchester United gaining a fortunate 2-2 draw at Aston Villa and then Chelsea suffering a shock 3-0 home reversal against Sunderland.

Arsenal are now lying in second spot, just two points behind the Blues.

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Nasri said: "You have got to say it was an excellent weekend for us with United drawing and Chelsea defeated.

"Is it our title year? It is definitely a case of being optimistic for the future and, maybe, it could be our turn.

"We are in a good position, just behind Chelsea, which is quite exciting for us and the league as a whole."

Nasri believes Arsenal have restored their reputation after shock home defeats to newly promoted West Brom and Newcastle ahead of the weekend derby with Tottenham.

He said: "Having done so well, now we must look ahead to what will be a very difficult game on Saturday (against Tottenham).

"We will have to fight hard to get the result but I feel our reputation is restored and we can do well."

Nasri is currently preparing for France's friendly international with England at Wembley and has mixed feelings about the timing of the international.

He said: "Arsenal have got big games coming up so maybe the fixture-wise, it is not ideal.

"But it is always a big game against England and no one would turn down the chance to play at Wembley.

"There is always extra rivalry between England and France."

Jack Wilshere could feature for England at Wembley on Wednesday, something that does not come as a shock to Nasri.

"I am not surprised at all by the progress Jack has made," he said.

"He had already shown signs in training about what a talented player he was.

"Like any young player, he needed to be given the opportunity to play.

"Not all players can get a chance to play at the biggest clubs and Jack's time at Bolton helped him to progress.

"Jack is only 18 but he is already getting a regular slot at Arsenal," added the former Marseille star.

"He has already shown he has the quality and technical ability.

"What he needs to do now is continue his progress without any fear of what is to come.

"The signs are good. He knows how important it is to go forward and play with a positive mindset.

"I like playing with him because he has so much technical ability and such great skill."

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