Arsenal defender Mertesacker: Title chances decided over Christmas

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker feels their title chances will be decided over Christmas.

The German defender has won the FA Cup in the last two seasons and is determined Arsenal end what will be a 12-year wait for the title.

"We always build up to something and now it's time to prove we are capable of doing something," he said.

"Doing great things means winning something where you need to be consistent for more than six games.

"The top three or four is always a good position and obviously it's tighter than last season, making it more interesting for everyone.

"We want to be involved until the end, that's the target. We've improved from last season and that's why we are looking forward to the next couple of weeks as they are defining weeks for the team.

"The winter period is always important to put pressure on the other teams. In the upcoming games, we will take it really seriously and not drop points any more.

"How united can we be throughout the Premier League season and how consistent can we be?

"It's a challenge and a good challenge, so we think we are well prepared."