Mikel Arteta told what Arsenal must do to stop Man City in Premier League title race

Arsenal need to improve their fitness and sign a left-back to overcome their Premier League wobbles, according to Micah Richards.

The Gunners are currently engaged in a repeat of last season's Premier League title challenge. Despite Arteta's efforts, Arsenal trails behind season frontrunner Manchester City after their recent disappointment against Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium.

As Arsenal gears up for an uphill battle to surpass City between now and the end of the season, Richards points out where the Gunners have stumbled. He suggests Arsenal are yet to work out how to manage a congested schedule and believes they need to sign a left-back.

Asked byGary Lineker if supporters are experiencing a similar collapse to last season on the Rest is Football podcast, Richards replied: «No, I don't think we are. If you look at the games where Arsenal have struggled, if you look at the fixtures, it's when they've had three games a week really.

»I think that's the next step for them. Man City can handle the three matches per week — that's what Arsenal should target next. The hole at left-back — while not pronounced — has been noticeable at times, especially since Zinchenko and Tomiyasu haven't lived up to expectations. Kiwior also failed to impress when placed in a left-back position.

«They've not had a constant. You know Gabriel, you know Saliba, you know Ben White. Timber gets injured at the start of the season. They're all very good players at that position, but they've not been performing at that constant level. I don't think it's one of those things, they've done well with a young squad but now they need to not let the wheels fall off.»

A tricky run of form has seen the Gunners secure only two victories in their last six