'The loss of Gundogan feels even more serious now'

Former Chelsea and Scotland winger Pat Nevin speaking to BBC Sport: "I never budged from my belief last season that Manchester City would win the league, even when Arsenal had a considerable cushion at the top.

"There was just too much quality, they had been there, done that and seen it all before, which Mikel Arteta's side hadn't. They had the goal-machine Erling Haaland and they had quality back up in every position.

"This time, even though they are only two points behind Arsenal and Spurs, I am less bullish about Pep Guardiola's side. With Kevin de Bruyne and Rodri out, they look far from invincible and Pep's penchant for playing players in unexpected positions is not now always his genius, it is sometimes plain necessity. At left-back it may change from Gvardiol, Gomes or Ake week to week, all are fine players, but none is a true left full-back and it shows.

"The loss of Gundogan feels even more serious now and the surprise ejection of Cole Palmer, a player I thought could grow into a City giant, but was offloaded to help balance the books, looks questionable in hindsight.

"So, are City stronger or weaker now? It is a question that needs asking but the same can't be said for Arsenal, they are clearly a better squad this season.

"The last gasp 1-0 win against City, even if it was with a lucky goal, underlined to every Arsenal player that this season they can do it. I am not saying they will, but it is possible and now they know it."