Arsène Wenger says Arsenal have no need to envy Chelsea despite their London rivals' recent success.
It's not that long since the Gunners had the sign over the Blues. Arsène Wenger did not lose any of his first 17 Premier League fixtures against Chelsea as his team swept to the title in 1998, 2002 and 2004. Since then the pendulum has swung: Chelsea have lost just two of the 11 League meetings since then and have three titles of their own.
Carlo Ancelotti delivered the Double last season and Arsenal's players could be forgiven for wanting what their opponents have when Chelsea arrive at Emirates Stadium on Monday. But Wenger insists they should not have an inferiority complex.
"Let’s say we look at the number of points they have and the number of points we have. We have nothing to envy," said the Frenchman.
"It is just for us to get over that hurdle. As long as a team has not won, they wonder 'can we win?' It is a mental thing because the quality of the squad is there. We are still young but not so much now."
Chelsea's run of success began with a Carling Cup triumph under Jose Mourinho back in 2005 - a trophy Arsenal are favourites to lift this season. Wenger believes that first piece of silverware is crucial to build momentum.
"Yes," he said, "Because as long as you have not won that [question] always comes back. 'So what have you won?'
"I understand and accept [what reporters write]. We still have built a new team and managed to stay at the top where many teams would be happy. You want more and that is our purpose this season, to deliver and respond to the demands people have."
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