Theo Walcott insists Arsenal's title hopes should not be written off as he looks to boost his claims of playing for England at the World Cup.
The 20-year-old started just his fifth Premier League game of the season on Saturday as the Gunners beat Sunderland 2-0 at home to remain six points behind leaders Chelsea.
Arsenal's chances of lifting the title had been dismissed after recent defeats by rivals Chelsea and Manchester United, but Walcott is adamant his team are still in the race.
"People tend to write us off," said Walcott. "We stay in the background and do our own thing. We're just six points behind Chelsea. It's looking good.
"It was frustrating in the early stages of the season with results not going our way, but it's coming together now."
Walcott is also trying to rediscover his best form after an injury-hit season which has jeopardised his prospects of being named in the World Cup squad.
He has not played for England this season and believes he needs to remain injury-free for the rest of the campaign to have a chance of being called up by Fabio Capello.
"I'm starting to get there now, it's just getting that final ball sorted," added Walcott. "I'm not looking too far towards the World Cup at all to be honest - I'm just concentrating on Arsenal with all the big games ahead of us because I've not really featured much for my club this season.
"I just need to stay fully fit and if I do hopefully I'll have a chance of getting on the plane."
